Windshield channel preservative

[Keith R.]

I've got three GM windshield channels (glass to frame gaskets) and they all have some kind of preservative on them. Kind of a waxy substance. Any suggestions on what to use to remove this prior to installing on the glass?

[Richard M.]

Re: Windshield channel preservative

Keith, Yes it's wax, the mold release.

It's a real pain to remove. Soapy water does nothing, even with hot water.

I use acetone on a terrycloth rag. The rag needs teeth. It's tedious but it works for me.

[Keith R.]

Re: Windshield channel preservative

I've got three GM windshield channels (glass to frame gaskets) and they all have some kind of preservative on them. Kind of a waxy substance. Any suggestions on what to use to remove this prior to installing on the glass?

Thanks Richard. I was hoping that you would respond. I began installing the channel without removing the wax figuring that I could clean it up afterwards but it got all over the glass and was cleaning it up with lacquer thinner. I'm thinking that lacquer thinner is too aggressive to use on the rubber itself so I'll try the acetone. By the way, I presume that it is normal for the channel to spread out initially at the wing corners? Will fitting the frames and side posts compress this area in an acceptable manner?

[Richard M.]

Re: Windshield channel preservative

Thanks Richard. I was hoping that you would respond. I began installing the channel without removing the wax figuring that I could clean it up afterwards but it got all over the glass and was cleaning it up with lacquer thinner. I'm thinking that lacquer thinner is too aggressive to use on the rubber itself so I'll try the acetone. By the way, I presume that it is normal for the channel to spread out initially at the wing corners? Will fitting the frames and side posts compress this area in an acceptable manner?

Yes as it turns the corners it'll open up a bit. I use masking tape to hold it in place while the sealer adheres to the rubber and the glass.

Do you have my installation document?

Rich

[Keith R.]

Re: Windshield channel preservative

Thanks again Richard. I do have your installation document and am using it as a procedural guide - it is most excellent. I see that others have used masking tape to hold the rubber channel to the glass while installing it. That's a good tip particularly when you don't have a second set of hands.

[Wayne L.]

Re: Windshield channel preservative

Richard-
Do you have a link to your installation document?
Thanks, Wayne

[Richard M.]

Re: Windshield channel preservative

Richard-
Do you have a link to your installation document?
Thanks, Wayne

Wayne, Comcast deleted my website so I cannot supply a link. Send me a PM with your email address and I'll send you the pdf version.

Rich

[E B.]

Re: Windshield channel preservative

Keith, you may try using a heat gun on low to melt the wax then wipe off with clean shop towel. I used this method on tires. Ed

[Gary B.]

Re: Windshield channel preservative

Wayne, Comcast deleted my website so I cannot supply a link. Send me a PM with your email address and I'll send you the pdf version.

Rich

Rich,

I was so bummed when Comcast stopped allowing personal webpage. My monthly Comcast fee goes up yearly and my services go down.

Gary

[Keith R.]

Re: Windshield channel preservative

Thanks E J. Good idea. I was thinking of warming it up with a heat gun anyhow before stretching it on the glass.