removing/reinstalling window trim
 

The window trim on my Targa was painted black at some point. I would like to strip the black paint to see what it looks like underneath. Is it possible to remove the trim from the front/rear windshield and replace it with the seal intact? The only info I could find documented installing the trim while installing a new seal. If this is possible, any tips, hints would be appreciated.

Thanks

Windshield trim? Or Targa Top trim (if there is any, I don't know)?

its the trim that fits in the center of the windshield seal.

Unfortuntaley, it's not possible. The window and seal have to be removed in order to remove the trim. The only thing you could do is try to strip it while it's on the car. But, if it doesn't look good underneath.....

Chili, thanks for the response. that's what I was afraid of. I might give that a try. If its crappy underneath, I can always mask and repaint it black. Any tips for using paint stripper on parts that are attached to the car? What should I use to mask off the areas that I don't wnat to be stripped?

Yea, I would test the stripper on the rubber, too. Might discolor it or something. Never tried. Maybe you can mask the rubber even before stripping. Try different masking tapes. Some like rubber, some don't.

you are certainly a risk taker if you put stripper anywhere near a good paint job.....

I would be hesitant to use paint stripper near good paint----but if you do, metal tape(aluminum) works well as a barrier. It is used to protect plastic windows and composite pieces when airplanes are being stripped and painted.

I agree, my paint's in pretty good shape, so I would need a pretty risk free method in mind to even try this. Most likely, I'll just wait until I have the windshield out for some reason.

John, it's not really all that difficult to remove the window. Before putting a stripper on your good paint job, remove the window to err on the side of safety. You could also do a better job in the respray with the trim out of the car.

Good luck, David

If I were to try to do what you describe without removing the trim...I would pprobably tape around the area and try using one of those small, portable media/sand blasters. Won't hurt the rubber seals and less risky.