Windshield and Rear gaskets and trim

[Bmrlvr4lfe]

Hi All, I need some advice.

My build is getting painted (windows out) we pulled the windshield out and it broke. The trim around the rubber gaskets came out hard and broke into pieces… I was planning on replacing the trim on both windows but I’m finding it difficult to find any that is a decent price. $100+ each. Has anyone found an alternative (preferably in black that works well?

Secondly, when I pulled the window seals they actually looked pretty good. Should I keep them or find an aftermarket seal that more affordable than the$ 250+ OEM ones I’m finding online?

I would love to hear from anyone who has experienced this. Thanks so much!

[roguetoaster]

There is a part from URO which should be under $100, but they are known as a low cost supplier, and some, if not all of their parts are questionable. You can certainly reuse a good original seal, but if the window broke because the seal wasn't flexible when you went to remove the glass it may be time for a new one.

[Bmrlvr4lfe]

Good point on the front seal! Thanks

[packratbimmer]

If your original rubber seals are still soft and you want to use them, start working in Pinnacle Vinyl and Rubber Treatment (PVRT). It will soften the rubber. Wait until a warm day (hotter the better really) and gently stretch the rubber seal with a partner - not like a tug-of-war. Treat the rubber several times and keep it clean. Use the PVRT as a lube when installing the locking trim with special tool - also works best on a hot day! I always reuse shield seals as long as they have not shrunk down in the corners and are not cracking or dried out.

[82eye]

if a shop is doing the work they may refuse to use the old seal. autobody shops and glaziers are not allowed to re-use a seal here if it has been removed. many will recommend painting the car windows in if you can't source them ahead of time here. make sure to check with your shop.

[Bmrlvr4lfe]

Thank you 82eye and packratbimmer!, that was very helpful! Packratbimmer, what special tool are you referring to?

[kyleconstantine]

I had a pro install a windshield and they used a uro seal. It leaked so bad in the rain. It was also bigger on the bottom and hung over the plastic wiper motor covers a little. I shelled out the cash for the genuine bmw seal and changed it myself. It fit a lot better but did still drip in one spot( I probably installed it a little wrong) a little caulk solved the issue...I'd just stay away from the uro seal unless you don't drive in the rain or plan to caulk the entire perimeter.

[packratbimmer]

The tool has a handle and an attachment that glides along the inside of the rubber trim. Within the part that slides, there is a triangular (looks like the shape of a Wankel rotor) shaped opening that one can feed the locking strip/trim through. I'll get a pic later today or so...

[packratbimmer]

Okay...well the shape is not exactly like a Wankel.

[MR 325]

It's not uncommon for the front and rear windshield seal to be reusable. I would do that if yours are in good condition. If you do replace them, only replace with OEM. Same goes with the locking strips. Buying low quality versions of these parts will cause you to do the job twice.

[varg]

I'm glad to see this information, glass removal and windshield replacement is one of the things I have been wondering about for the upcoming restoration of my E30. The only reason I want to remove glass at all is that apparently you have to remove it to take the headliner out, which is necessary to fix the roof rust. Otherwise I wouldn't bother.

[packratbimmer]

The telltale sign that the seals are too old and dry to reuse is shrinking at the corners. If the corners look like they need to be caulked to prevent leakage, then they are gone most likely. Obviously, cracking as well as dry rot are reasons for replacement. Put a space heater in the car on a sunny day and make it like a sauna - rubber cooperates when it is warm and not the other way around.

[Bmrlvr4lfe]

Thank you all for the great information! I really appreciate it! This board is the best!!

[bmwman91]

It's not uncommon for the front and rear windshield seal to be reusable. I would do that if yours are in good condition. If you do replace them, only replace with OEM. Same goes with the locking strips. Buying low quality versions of these parts will cause you to do the job twice.

+1

OEM is more expensive, significantly so, but chances are you will not need to replace them again ever.