commonality between a 914 and a del Sol, lift-off roofs and keeping gaskets & w/s supple Options

[1970 Neun vierzehn]

This is not a PG correct recommendation as its origins are from a highly regarded Asian manufacturer of typically well- engineered, quality constructed and generally regarded durable and reliable autos, motorcycles and power equipment.

A number of years ago, the aforementioned manufacturer built and sold a model with the name of "del Sol". This car (and I drove one for about a year) had a removable, one piece roof, similar in concept to the 914s execution. Well, to any who had any familiarity with this car, sometimes, some cars would leak around the roof gaskets and dribble water into the passenger compartment. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/huh.gif)
Those of us who have owned our cars long enough to wash them once, or who have owned them a loooooong time like some on this Forum, know that soft, supple and pliant weather stripping and seals are paramount for preserving the integrity of the rubber.

The whole reason for this long-winded intro is to advise one and all that Honda recommends the following for preserving roof seals (on the del Sol), and I'd think on other w/s as well:

It is "Shin-Etsu Silicone" Grease. It's white and goes to clear upon application. Honda Part # 08798-9013. Is it better than other automotive silicone, I don't know and can't really tell. But based on my 29 year affiliation with Honda automobiles, I'm guessing someone at Honda did some research. When I get my 914 back, I'm going to use some on my new rubber pieces. Pat probably won't approve, but there are so many none P/G "blessed" things about my car that it probably won't matter much anymore. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif)

Paul