Adhesive for sunroof seals?

Paul Ferradas · 11-26-2006, 09:40 AM

I'm replacing the seals on my sunroof and want to know what type of adhesive to use?

Thanks

Miguel Antonett · 11-26-2006, 09:50 AM

3M Super WeatherStrip Liquid (black). The best!

Paul Ferradas · 11-26-2006, 09:59 AM

Thanks!

dentist90 · dentist90's Garage

This is what I used to replace all the felt seals around my sunroof. Sets fast.

Paul Ferradas · 11-26-2006, 12:00 PM

Thanks Dentist90, can you explain your processs? Do you use a tip applicator with it? I've been reading some past threads and some people say it's a PITA to apply because it's strings up very easily. I'm planning on masking the car pretty well before I try it so i don't get this stuff on the body of the car.

Also, do I have to remove the sunroff to do the rear seal? Any could thread on removing the sunroff if it's required?

Thanks!

dentist90 · dentist90's Garage

I used the applicator tip on the tube plus some Q-tips to spread it thin and even. Yes, you have to remove the sunroof to put the rear felt seal on the sunroof. The front seal applies to the leading edge of the sunroof hole in the roof... that one's easy. Three IMPORTANT tips:
1. mark on the roof where the edges of the seals overlap for reference with masking tape
2. observe how the old seal is applied to the sunroof ie: how close to top edge of painted sunroof lid. This is important if you don't want your felt to stick up too far past flush with the roofline.
3. make sure the rear felt is centered on the sunroof when you apply it. Do a dry fit first and mark the sunroof lid where you will start one edge, or mark the center of the felt seal itself.
Getting the sunroof lid off is easy. The leading edge of the liner is clipped on. Gently pop the clips and slide the liner back into the roof. The mounting hardware for the sunroof is then visible. You will apply the rear seal onto the removed lid. Wayne's 101 Projects book has good pictures of all this. Thats what I used for guidance.. Just make sure the seals overlap properly and don't stick up too much beyond the painted roof surfaces.
PS. I didn't have to mask the car, but obviously try to place the seal in the right place the first try. Trying to take it off and reposition it makes for a messy install and a poorer bond.. have fun with it!!

Miguel Antonett · 11-26-2006, 02:40 PM

It does string up VERY easy - all the time - and streches forever... Get the handle on how to use it somewhere else before getting it on top of the car... Be carefull and take your time. You don't want that stuff on your paint.

Paul Ferradas · 11-26-2006, 04:07 PM

Thanks guys. I have that book so I'll look at the process. I bought the 3M Adhesive today and I will tackle this project next weekend. This will be my very first project

Paul Ferradas · 11-27-2006, 02:20 PM

One more thing, I peeled back some of the old strip and there's some old glue residue on the metal. Does the 3M adhesive cleaner work well to clean this up without damaging the paint? Any other suggestions?

dentist90 · dentist90's Garage

If it's dry and brittle try a plastic (ie picnic) knife . I've used acetone for this sort of cleanup in the past. It will remove wax so be careful, but should not remove cured paint.

Paul Ferradas · 11-27-2006, 06:25 PM

wax? where would I find wax?

dentist90 · dentist90's Garage

I mean try to avoid getting it onto the roof where it might mar the waxed finish and make the paint look dull around the sunroof. The usual admonition... test it in an inconspicuous area. Cheers!
PS. I haven't tried the 3M adhesive cleaner... I wonder what's in it? Acetone? Toluene?

defcon65 · 11-29-2006, 02:22 PM

Try applying it with a skinny glue-tip, you can get them at Hobby Lobby. Keep a couple solvent rags handy to clean up the strings. Nitrile gloves help, too - once you get this stuff on your fingers you'll end up slopping glue on anything you touch. Try to get the freshest tube you can find, it can thicken as it ages, making it harder to work with.

Regards,