Black: Trim + Weather stripping, how to get black again? Clean windows too?

**C. Charles Hahn** · 06-10-2005, 09:43 AM

it may sound strange, but I`d tape `em off and spray the pieces with flat black trim paint... duplicolor makes stuff specifically for this purpose in rattle-can form. I`ve used it before, and it actually works quite well.

**Bill D** · 06-10-2005, 09:52 AM

Originally posted by integraoligist

Thanks Bill, i`ll have to inquire about the single item`s Triminox has and see what they run.

Aside from Trimonex`s GR-40 cleaner, they have Trim-A-Shield in clear plus ten other colors I`m guessing varying in degree of gloss.

As for the Valugard ETR-II products, they have Color Guard, UV Guard and Toner as well as New Car Prep ( I just used it, a solvent like Prepsol) to initially clean the trim. All of those are single items as well.

Valugard`s claim to fame is successful OE use by many of the big name auto manufacturers.

**integraoligist** · 06-10-2005, 10:49 AM

Originally posted by Shiny Lil Detlr

it may sound strange, but I`d tape `em off and spray the pieces with flat black trim paint... duplicolor makes stuff specifically for this purpose in rattle-can form. I`ve used it before, and it actually works quite well.

i didnt even think of this... i just bought a 5oz color-match for my stock paint from Dupli-color... would the paint stick and HOLD to the trim?

Bill, the Trim-A-Shield is the same color dye that themightytimmah sugguested as well... I`d have to mask everything off using this to make sure i dont get it on Paint or the windshield... right?

**Lowejackson** · 06-10-2005, 11:12 AM

Is the trim rubber or plastic

**trueblueblood** · 06-10-2005, 11:48 AM

I would try and hit it first with some Poorboys Trim Restorer or AIO which I had really good luck with on mine and my wife`s trim.

It removed alot of oxidation and made it look black again. I hate doing trim and most products like dressings make it look good for a short time or quickly wash off with rain. I like the AIO cause it cleans and protects. As far as durability too soon but it made it look great again. This was on all the rubber/plastic weatherstripping and top roof rack. If that doesn`t help go for one of the dye Bill D mentioned. But being a 98 and if it was neglected the dye may be your only choice but AIO and PB trim restorer are two great products to have in your arsenal.

**imported_Griz** · 06-10-2005, 12:00 PM

Originally posted by Bill D

Yeah I think that dye kit is made by Trimonex.

I recently got done using this stuff, mainly because of Anthony Orrocsco`s detail on a faded Porsche where the trim was transformed. I was still a little skeptical - thinking back to my experiences with the Leatherique redye kit - and thought maybe it wasn`t entirely what I was hoping for. But with the prospect of rejuvinating trim for $40 rather than a replacement cost of $300 I went for it.

The cleaner was amazing, it worked best for me with paper towels for application and removal (mind you the trim was off of the car at the time). I applied 3 thin coats of stain (with a sponge), allowed to sit, used the cleaner, put the moldings back on.

Looks brand new. The trim wraps all the way around my car, and I still have enough product left to do 4 or 5 more cars.

p.s. I wouldn`t suggest spray painting anything because you`ll just end up with chipping paint in a year. Also, as far as the weatherstripping (rain channels, around windows), I`d just replace it.

**integraoligist** · 06-10-2005, 01:11 PM

the rain channels are rubber... not really fadded or anything, could just use some protection ...

but the windshield trim is plastic and thats where the fadeing is...

i`m getting some AIO for the paint, i`ll wipe it on there and see if it does anything for it... if not then i`ll get the Trinonex dye... i have no idea if i can take that piece off the car without being a major hassle... and if i need to dye it, i`ll probebly just mask off and dye.

Thanks all for the help!

**Lowejackson** · 06-10-2005, 01:24 PM

For the rubber I would use Gummipledge (sp?) leave for about 20 minutes or so and then add your favourite exterior dressing.

As for the plastic, could it be faded from old wax etc, if so have a look at the Autoglym bumper shine. It is very effective at cleaning wax and other products and offers good protection

**SpoiledMan** · 06-10-2005, 03:15 PM

For the plastic at the base of the windshield, you can use VM, Poorboys PwC, AIO, Moosewax and I`m sure some others I missed. Clean them well and then protect them. They are smooth hard plastic and respond well to this. It will take a little time to get it all done but the above products will yield success.

**integraoligist** · 06-11-2005, 02:02 PM

thanks again guys... i`ll be getting the AIO shortly and trying it out on the trim...

we`ll see what happins

**Bill D** · 06-11-2005, 02:13 PM

Yeah, if it`s not too bad AIO should do fine. On new cars and cars, cars in great condition, it`s all they need, maybe some SG on top if you desire. No worrying about washing and running off and leaving trails all over the paint.

**integraoligist** · 06-11-2005, 02:34 PM

hmm, sealing the trim after the AIO?

i`m actually getting some Wolfgang Sealent.... when i put the 2 or 3 coats on my paint, i`ll add it to the trim as well

Thanks for the tip!