Vaseline or Talc on Trim question

[Rad Hatter]

In my owners manual it suggests to use either Vaseline -(Petroleum Jelly) or Talcum Powder to keep the exterior trim supple...does anyone do this and does it work?
Please provide Directions ~Instructions for use
Cheers
Rich

[M491driver]

The PO of my '85 applied vaseline to all of the exposed rubber/plastic trim since he stored the car during the winter months. It seemed to work because it has not cracked from aging like some cars of this vintage that I have seen. I have not continued the practice but maybe I should. It would have to be a thin coat other wise it would be a dirt magnet if you drive the car regularly.

[Jims5543]

Liquid Silicone. I don't use Vaseline because it is mineral based.
I wipe on the liquid silicone wait about 30 minutes and wipe it clean. It leaves the plastic and rubber very moist after its removed and lasts weeks.

[jac1976]

i thought silicon was taboo, speaking strictly of car care, of course.

[javadog]

Some people use Gummi Pflege from einszett in Germany. And, yes, Pelican sells it.

JR

[NY65912]

Wurth rubber treatment.

[ben parrish]

Silicone is fine to use....if you never have to repaint the car. Silicone is next to impossible to remove out of every nook and crannie; it will cause the new paint to "fish eye". Even after you sand the "fish eyes" and repaint, the blemishes re-appear. Bad stuff. Ask any paint and body guy. My car had had silicone used on it by the previous owner and when I had to repaint it after a hail storm (after two years without silicone touching the car) the paint guy had a hell of a time removing the fish eyes.
Ben

[emac]

Ok all
I have been a boat owner for over 20 yrs., and a few years ago I found
a product called Formula 303. One of the best things I have ever used. Nothing sticks to it, it does not build up and it blocks ALL UV rays. Again this is just my 2c worth.

[jac1976]

I second the 303 Aerospace Protectant. Can be purchased at local marine shop like West Marine.

[Rad Hatter]

Thanks for that - its available in Singapore- not HK so will order- looks like a Spray - how do you apply it on a rag and then smooth it on? -is it safe with paint?
Cheers
Great resource here ..

[emac]

Spray it on a DRY surface and wipe it off with a DRY cotton rag. It will
NOT harm the finish on your paint, probably will make it look better.

[beamonk]

Wurth rubber care is excellent! No silicone

[Halm]

What John just said: Wurth Rubber Care for rubber seals. Other rubber areas I like One Grand E.R.V Dressing. For the dash, I use nothing but Vinylex. Check out The have all the good stuff, fair prices and excellent "How to's". And Larry is a big Porsche guy!

[bkreigsr]

if you are still intent on an over-the-counter remedy, go to Glycerine.
no major drawbacks, keeps exterior seals, spoilers, gaskets supple and flexible, and does not attract road grit.
(recommmended in the owners manual for my '71 914)
Bill K

[sand_man]

Another vote for the 303! Works great.

[1982911sc]

sounds like a personal matter!