Tools and Materials Needed
Installing trunk weatherstrip for classic cars requires a few essential tools and materials. These include:
- Weatherstrip adhesive: This is a special adhesive designed to bond the weatherstrip to the car body. It’s important to choose the right adhesive for the job, as some adhesives may not be suitable for certain types of weatherstrip.
- Weatherstrip adhesive remover. It's important to explore this option as it has been known that some factory adhesive worked very well and is now very tough to remove.
- Utility knife: This is used to cut the weatherstrip to the desired length. Make sure you use a sharp blade for clean cuts!
- Plastic putty knife: This is used to remove old weatherstrip from the car body. Find one that fits well in the track of trunk seal as to make sure you do not scratch and makes for better maneuvering.
- Screwdriver: Used to remove screws that hold the weatherstrip in place – make sure you use one with an appropriate size head!
- Weatherstrip: The material used to seal your trunk shut – choose carefully, as some types may not be suitable for certain types of cars.
- Masking tape: Holds your new weatherstrip in place while you do a dry test fit to confirm the fitment. This is an important step in understanding the installation.
Removing the Old Weatherstrip
Removing the old weatherstrip from a classic car trunk is an important step in the installation process. To ensure a successful removal, it’s important to gather the necessary tools and materials first:
- Rubber gloves
- Adhesive remover
- Plastic putty knife
- Razor blade
- Vacuum cleaner
Once you have these items ready, put on your rubber gloves to protect your hands from any sharp edges.
Using the putty knife carefully pry up the old weatherstrip from the trunk. Then use the razor blade to cut away any remaining pieces of weatherstrip that may be stuck in place. Once all of the old weatherstrip has been removed, vacuum up any debris left behind and clean the area with a damp cloth to remove any remaining residue. Allow this area to dry completely before proceeding with the installation of new weatherstrip for best results.
Installing the New Weatherstrip
Installing new weatherstrip for classic cars is an important step in restoring them to their original condition. To ensure a successful installation, it’s important to have the right tools and materials on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Utility knife
- Masking tape
- Weatherstrip adhesive
- New weatherstrip
Once all the necessary materials are gathered, follow these steps to install the new weatherstrip:
- Clean the area where the weatherstrip will be installed.
- Measure the area twice to ensure that the new weatherstrip will fit correctly.
- Cut the new weatherstrip to size using a utility knife a 1/4" overlap if this is not a custom fitted seal.
- Before gluing your weatherstrip in place do a dry test fit to make sure you have the correct fit and length.
- Start at the front center above the lock cylinder.
- Apply weatherstrip adhesive bead evenly to the cars channel, work a small space at a time. Then carefully place the weatherstripping in its desired location on your car's trunk lid or deck frame.
- Finally, once installed shut your trunk and open it back up to see if any adhesive oozes and shows. Wipe up any excess adhesive immediately.
Following these steps should result in a successful installation of your new trunk lid!
Tips and Tricks for a Successful Installation
Installing trunk weatherstrip for your classic car can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and materials, it doesn't have to be. Here are some tips and tricks for ensuring a successful installation:
- Use the right tools and materials: Make sure you have all of the necessary tools on hand before beginning the job. This includes a razor blade, putty knife, drill, screwdriver, and weatherstrip adhesive & remover.
- Take measurements: Measure the area where you will be installing the weatherstrip to ensure that it fits properly.
- Clean and prepare the surface: Before installation, make sure to remove any dirt, debris or rust from the area. This will help ensure that your weatherstrip is securely attached.
- Align the weatherstrip: Before securing in place with adhesive make sure that your weatherstrip is centered and that both ends are even. Always do a dry test before installing any weatherstrip.
- Secure in place with adhesive: Once aligned properly use an even layer of adhesive to secure it in place; allow time for it to dry completely before closing up your trunk again!
- Test your work: After installation test out your new seal by closing up your trunk - if there’s no air leakage then you’ve done a great job!
Conclusion
Installing trunk weatherstrip for classic cars is a relatively straightforward process, but it requires the right tools and materials. It also requires taking the time to ensure a successful installation. To begin, remove the old weatherstrip and clean the area before installing the new weatherstrip. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific weatherstrip being installed.
Additional Resources
- Online forums
- Instructional videos
- We awlays reccomend using our 3M weatherstrip adhesive
With these tips in mind, you can be sure that your classic car will look great with its newly-installed trunk weatherstrip!
About Metro Moulded Parts Classic Car Parts
For any serious classic car restoration, you'll want to use the only brand professional installers trust. Metro Moulded Parts car parts are of the highest quality in the industry and will add real value to your car, regardless of the application. Moreover, you can be sure all our parts are made authentically down to the finest details of the original. Don't fall for low-quality substitutes. Make sure you buy the genuine article. Click here to learn more about our superior quality and why people really can feel the difference. Also check out our shop of over 15,000 items to find out what we currently offer for your vehicle.