Vent window gasket install on 84 frustration

[Rockinar]

Im trying to install the vent window seal on my 84. I have watched every Youtube video possible. I cant get the rubber in the channel. Im losing my mind. I refuse to pay someone $500 to put a some seal seal on. Im using Precision brand seal. I dont know if theres another brand thats more workable or what.

Every video is like "Oh just use a little soapy water and pry it into the channel, it might be a little frustrating but you will get it.......blah blah...."


I have been trying for DAYS and got nowhere. Anyone with a hack or tip? Someone needs to invent a tool for this.

[JohnnyPopper]

Try doing that on a VW bus...nearly lost it too.

Can you send pics of what you're working on?

[JohnnyPopper]

BTW soapy water is not your friend, you need to make that rubber as slick as possible. PB Blaster, or Superzilla.

[MY1978]

Im trying to install the vent window seal on my 84. I have watched every Youtube video possible. I cant get the rubber in the channel. Im losing my mind. I refuse to pay someone $500 to put a some seal seal on. Im using Precision brand seal. I dont know if theres another brand thats more workable or what.

Every video is like "Oh just use a little soapy water and pry it into the channel, it might be a little frustrating but you will get it.......blah blah...."


I have been trying for DAYS and got nowhere. Anyone with a hack or tip? Someone needs to invent a tool for this.

I had the same issues but was successful using Sprayway and a trim removal tool and just really working it in.  I ordered and tried 3 different seals (that could not be sent back) because somewhere along the line my one vent window was NOT a 1978 window and they only come in pairs.      One side is a one piece and one side has the tabs.  Because I had "installed" them, I could not send them back.  Still have them maybe one day I will get a little of my money bacEventually I had to bite the bullet and send off to restoration people ( https://www.prp.com/ ) .  It was a hard pill to swallow but worth not being frustrated and possibly breaking the glass or frame.    Have you tried a glass shop or someplace like Safelite and get an estimate for cost?

[Shifty]

BTW soapy water is not your friend, you need to make that rubber as slick as possible. PB Blaster, or Superzilla.

Tire mounting soap, or 3M silicone paste as well.

[VileZambonie]

Is it a one piece or two piece design? Let the seals sit in the sun, use sil-glyde and once you have the seal started in the channel, use making tape to hold it while you work the seal in. If you do not have the plastic tools, buy them so you can work the seal in.