late build '86 deck lid seal question

[darrin]

lada03's questions about his deck lid seal reminded me of an issue I'm having with my late build (May 1986) '86 targa.

Specifically, the factory replacement seal I bought (911.512.129.00 -- spec'ed for 911s through 1986) will not properly install into the lip. While I can get it to thread in, doing so leaves the rear edge of the seal sitting over a half inch above the rear deck (where it's supposed to sit flat. I see that part # 911.512.129.01 is spec'ed for 87-89 911s and am wondering whether anybody knows what changes in seal design tie to the part # change and whether my late '86 911 may actually require this 87-89 seal.

TIA

[EC900]

That .01 is the latest part reiteration not necessarily a major design or fit change. Could be just compound or material difference as size/configuration wouldn’t change . I checked my ‘77 PET and it shows the older version .00 you described.
Anything later prob would be a 930 part designation ?
Post a photo of how yours is fitting over the edge so we can get an idea of what may be the problems, also a side profile of the rubber gasket. Maybe others can compare.

[911obgyn]

I think it is supposed to sit a bit high so it seals against the edge of the decklid when its closed.

[darrin]

thanks! will shoot a photo -- understand about it sitting up to seal, but this is sitting WAY up

d

[redridge]

When new it sits up high... it will eventually settle down in time.

[EC900]

Here’s a couple photos. Note the height relative to the top of the deck frame about 1/4”. The thickness of my old original gasket seal is maybe 1/8” - 3/16” at most at the top where it fits into the channel. Second photo shows the contour profile of the gasket as best as I can get and see. It’s highlighted in yellow, the “U” fits into a curved channel “C”.
I’m not sure if your concern is the “top” channel sitting high or the lower backend “flap” or “drip edge” that leads downward is high. The back end will likely over time lay flat. Using a hair dryer, direct sunlight or low setting on a heat gun will shape the gasket faster. Do this with the gasket off the car, just enough to get any bends it may have in it. Once it’s very warm and flexible, reattach it and the coolness of the deck metal will help form the fitment. Might need to bend or roll the lower edge a bit coax it to lay flat. Don’t overdo the heat as this will deform the gasket to look like a slice of wavy bacon!



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[darrin]

thanks all -- was able to get the seal installed, with the back flap sticking up higher than I originally thought it should, but appears to be securely held in place -- here are a few photos showing how high up the rear flap is sticking. Since it's holding securely, I'll let it sit as-is and see if / how the flap adjusts over time.