what to do about the rust color weather stripping

[Goya20]

the weather stripping around the windshield of my e30 is a rust color and i would like to make it black any ideas

[noE30]

you could tape it off and paint it like you would to shadowline the other window trim

[John in VA]

Yep, paint it, try a Sharpie, Forever Black, Kiwi Scuff Cover or Heel & Sole Edge Color Renew or replace it with the later style black lockstrip.
You'll also need to paint the corner pieces black or replace them with the black ones.

[ZM Blue Devil]

or buy a replacement set from us. We have front and rear.

[MR 325]

I painted mine on my 85.

You could also order a new set in chrome (early model) or a set in black (late model.

[Goya20]

thats sounds like a plan thanks

[sector6]

...you could try "Aluminum Trim Deoxidizer" from bavauto. Haven't tried it myself, dunno if it works well or not.


edit** NM, did't see the "make it black" part

[GCARent]

I know this was a couple of months ago, but if you havent done so (or for others who are interested in replacing this piece), I would recommend replacing them with new ones (pretty cheap from pelican). When I first got my e30, I had the same rusty looking windshield moulding weatherstrips and it made my car look beat up. Once I replaced it, it made a HUUUUUGE difference.

Let me tell you, this is a B***H to replace. Removing the stock ones is simple, but installing it is tedious.

Recommendations:

1) Spray a lot (waste the whole can!) of WD-40 or some type of lubrication on the mouldings. Lube it good.
2) Start inserting the moulding at the edge and work your way around using a flat head.

Good Luck!

[ZM Blue Devil]

There is actually a tool which makes it super easy.

[learningcurve86]

I used a butter knife to help replace my front set... wan't too bad at all.


I have a rear set if you want it. PM me if you do.

[bimmerpirate]

it's not rust. it's simply the chrome has both faded and fallen off. either buy it new from ZM or go take it off a late model e30 from a junkyard.

also, getting the window lock strip tool is well worth the $15 to put it in.

[txtorquemade]

Painted mine. Duplicolor Satin, with adhesive enhancer to prime.

EXCELLENT results!