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Help changing window external "sweeps" weatherstrip
Since this is a "how to do it myself" technical question, didn't know if this was better in this area or general. Figured more DIYers are here.
The paint shop (hired by previous owner) wiped laquer thinner on the side window "sweeps" -- the external weatherstrip that runs the top of the door. It ruined them.
I can't seem to get them off to put on replacements. They appear to be riveted on -- plus the windows are in the way.
Any ideas how to get the old ones off and the new ones on?
You must remove the door panel and put the window all the way down. Then you drill (CAREFULLY) out the old rivets. Do not go deeper than the rivet head. Then you push the remaining rivet thru. The rubber has hidden clips. Pull the moulding up and away from paint. New mouldings simply snap in anr re-rivet. Repops come (usually) with rivets. GM does not. 3/16 bi 1/4 long is the proper size rivet.
You must remove the door panel and put the window all the way down. Then you drill (CAREFULLY) out the old rivets. Do not go deeper than the rivet head. Then you push the remaining rivet thru. The rubber has hidden clips. Pull the moulding up and away from paint. New mouldings simply snap in anr re-rivet. Repops come (usually) with rivets. GM does not. 3/16 bi 1/4 long is the proper size rivet.
Those "hidden" clips are a bear to get back in right. You must get then all engaged or the strip will be crooked. Only after you are sure that all the clips are engaged properly (the strip will be crooked if all clips are not right) , do you replace the pop rivets. Also, don't throw you old parts away until you are done. If you break a Clip you can salvage one from the old part and believe me , It's not hard to break one. Good luck.
Some people have replaced these things without removing the door panel, ... but I found it easiest to remove the door panel and put the window down, you DONT need to remove the window.
When you "remove" the door panel, place an appropriate sized box under it to set the door panel on while you work on the outer window seals. This will allow you to do this job without having to disconnect and then re-connect all of the electricals on the door. A box that just barely clears the door when you open it works fine...