Title: Door Weatherstrip / Seal Replacement
Owner: Don B , added Dec 08 2012 06:38:08
[127]
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3500x1863 232kb(If the image has failed to load, click on it to view large version) Description: The treadplate covers the seal along the sill so it must be removed. The insert is held in place by a magnetic strip. Carefully lift it away, then remove the screws that secure the treadplate. Before you reinstall it, remove the treadplate endcaps and clean the plate with soap and a scrub pad.
1350x1235 225kb(If the image has failed to load, click on it to view large version) Description: Find a spot on the old seal where you can grasp it securely such as the lower curve near the B pillar. Pull the seal until it releases from the channel. When one spot is free, the rest of the seal will easily pull away. I saved the old seal in case I ever need to repair the new one.
1300x1147 225kb(If the image has failed to load, click on it to view large version) Description: Tools include soapy water, a brush or sponge to apply it, good knee pads, and various tools for pressing the seal into the channel. I prefer a screwdriver with comfortable handle for most of the job, but a plastic trim tool with rounded end is less likely to cut through the seal or scratch paint.
2995x1855 232kb(If the image has failed to load, click on it to view large version) Description: Use warm water with a generous dose of liquid dish soap as a lubricant. Apply with brush or sponge to about one foot of channel and seal at a time. The soap helps the seal slip into place and will allow the seal to be moved along the channel to adjust its fit once you have it all in place.
3419x2243 240kb(If the image has failed to load, click on it to view large version) Description: Starting at the top corner, tilt the seal so the outer edge fits into the channel, then use your pressing tool to force the inner edge into the channel to secure it. Front door seals have only one 90-degree corner, positioned at the top of the B pillar; rear door seals have two upper corners.
2306x3588 228kb(If the image has failed to load, click on it to view large version) Description: Once the seal is installed along the top edge its weight will be fully supported, so you can focus on inserting it into the channel. Next, work downward along the B pillar.
2592x3872 221kb(If the image has failed to load, click on it to view large version) Description: At this curve near the door latch it is important that the seal be stretched out a little as you go. If the seal is bunched up at this point, the door may not close easily or at all. When the B pillar edge is fully attached, it's time to work down the side near the door hinges.
1300x1466 217kb(If the image has failed to load, click on it to view large version) Description: The area near the door hinges is the most difficult to access and a straight pressing tool is cumbersome. In the past, I've used a paint can opener with a rounded tip, but I couldn't find it for this job, so I took a few minutes to cut and grind this tool out of an old adjustable shelf bracket.
3006x2592 230kb(If the image has failed to load, click on it to view large version) Description: The bent, rounded tip of the tool makes it easier to press the seal where access is limited by the door.
2486x2271 226kb(If the image has failed to load, click on it to view large version) Description: The most difficult spot of all is the lower curve near the door hinges. Once you have this spot attached, it's easy going along the bottom edge.
3872x1598 233kb(If the image has failed to load, click on it to view large version) Description: This is where you'll be glad you used the soapy water as a lubricant. It's common to have too much seal length remaining. Simply slide the previously-secured sections of the seal to the right and left, respectively, until the unattached section of seal pulls close to the channel.
1786x2239 210kb(If the image has failed to load, click on it to view large version) Description: Once the seal is fully attached, go all the way around again pressing it firmly into the channel to be sure it's fully seated. Correct any problems you find, then treat the seal with your favorite rubber care product. Reinstall the treadplate, insert, and treadplate endcaps, and you're done.
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