garrettb

I'm not sure what this piece is called, but I was surprised at how easy it came up. I wanted to check under it to make sure my birdcage was in good shape, which it is. Now, I can't figure out how to get it back in, and what kind of sealer (if any) I should be using and where.

Also, are the three holes I have circled in red from the factory, or was someone trying to add extra "ventilation" at some point?

As always, thanks for the help!

Alan 71

Hi g,
The three holes don't look familiar.
Perhaps they're from an 'early' car-phone antenna mount?
Regards,
Alan

garrettb

Good to know. I think I'll seal the holes up for now. It looks like your photo is showing a similar sealant to what I've got on my car. Any tips on reinstalling this piece and where to place the sealant? Other posts mention to use something flexible and removable in case I need to get at something down the road.

Alan 71

Hi g,
There's lot's of discussion about what material should be used and also where to use it.
I think the 3M Black Strip Sealer is a good choice.
I would look at the underside of the stainless trim for clues as to where the sealer was used on the windshield header and ss trim at St.Louis.
Regards,
Alan

Sunstroked

3m strip sealer is what I used. You can remove it without bending it up or damaging the trim and it seals well.

garrettb

Awesome, thanks guys. For now, I just ran a bead of silicone between the front and sides. I'll pick up some 3M stuff next time it has to come off. The metal clips are supposed to fit behind the T trim, yes? I couldn't get two of them behind because they were so tight to the black trim piece!

Alan 71

Hi g,
I really don't like silicone caulk for this use (or for bathtubs).
Once applied the adhesion can fail but the caulk stays in place and the water can 'wick' into place between the caulk and the surface.
The 3M strip caulk actually works by 'displacing' the moisture.
Regards,
Alan