Rubber Replacents, Finally done ! How I did it …. Options

[jim_hoyland]

Before I replace the targa top and door piller rubbers, I need to review the ins/outs of this. Seems like there’s a good thread How To do this……
@Mikey914

[Mikey914]

Targa roof to window seal-
The biggest problem I see with the seals is that most people try to pull the seals on the roof at the top of the window. Yes they can be pulled through the track, and you think that you have relieved all the tension, but in a month or more, the vibration / expansion and contraction will eventually allow the runner to return to the unstretched shape. Rubber has memory, and will do this, so even a small amount of stress will eventually cause this seal to mysteriously shrink.
The only way to avoid this is to install the outside edge 1st and them press in the inner edge. I making the seal about 1/4" longer than you think you will need. Install the roof and try to close the front latch. You will notice the seal will "beer can"or crumple in. Take a carpet knife and warm soapy water and shave off up to 1/8" and re try. Continue the process until you can see that seal is actually making contact and is under pressure, but not so much that it deforms the seal. This will allow for the best possible fit.


The rubber shrinks over time so the old one will have more clearance. Our seal is designed for an exact fit. The real key is to use a large flat screwdriver. Something with about a 1/2” width. You will literally be pressing it in about 1/2” at a pop. It takes time and is more difficult to install that it appears it should be, but you will reduce wind noise and make a tight fit.

VERTICAL TARGA SEALS

We make them longer to you can cut for a perfect fit. Once you have the top situated so the height make a perfect seal, you can close the door onto the seal and mark with a pen. Cut below the line. Then try to shut again. You may need to trim a little more off, but you can make the seal sit snugly right on top of the door end cap.

TIP- Use soapy water and a break knife (so you have a long blade) to cut the rubber. The soap lubricates the rubber as it cuts. It will cut like butter. Be careful! It will do this to skin also!