Rubber Weather stripping around the doors...

M

mrtonyn

New member
What are you guys using to clean and preserve the rubber from drying out?
Is it even that critical to use anything on it to preserve the rubber at all ?
thnx.
 
mrtonyn said:
What are you guys using to clean and preserve the rubber from drying out?
Is it even that critical to use anything on it to preserve the rubber at all ?
thnx.
Click to expand...

I routinely use 303 Protectant on rubber weather stripping. Has UV protection to extend the life of the rubber.
 
Glass 'Rubber' Seals

The seals on automobile are no longer made from natural rubber. Auto manufacturers use a specialized synthetic material called EPDM, (ethylene propylene diene monomer). Natural rubber or blends that contain rubber cannot endure the direct exposure to ultra violet radiation (UV) and oxidation.

EPDM has extremely poor resistance to solvents and oils. Do not use a cleaner or any chemical product that contains oils or Dimethalsilicone (DMS) usually a clear greasy liquid, which leaves a never-dry gloss film, as most contain petroleum distillate solvents that are that are incompatible with EPDM.

Exterior - For dull or faded seals or window mouldings- remove imbedded white stains in vinyl and rubber mouldings; first wipe the mouldings with a multi-purpose cleaner. P21S Total Auto Wash or 1z Plastik Reiniger (Deep Cleaner) both products are excellent for this task. This removes any wax / polish / silicone debris and dissolves surface stains.

Protection - with 1z einszett Vinyl Rubber Care & Potectant "Tiefenpfleger? provides a temperature-resistant seal and a low-shine matte finish Dust-resistant and retards the fading effects of UV rays to keep exterior ?rubber? and vinyl looking like new. Apply (every three months) with a micro fibre towel or applicator pad and give the trim a quick once over.

Interior - The soft seals around doors, windows, sunroofs, hood and trunk are constantly being flexed and compressed all the while being subjected to a hostile environment. Use a product that contains glycerine (Iz enzett Gummi Pflege or Zymol Seal) a natural plant anti-oxidizing agent, it will prolong the useful life of the seal by restoring the original moisture and resist tearing and sticking

For dull or faded ?rubber? (EPDM) seals or window mouldings: along the top edge of the door, where the window enters and exits the door there is a gasket, fully roll down the window and use a micro fibre towel and clean in between the rubber seals on both sided of the window. The inside edge of this gasket is usually felt lined and can/will pick up contaminations (oil / grease) as the window is operated. Be sure to clean the inner gasket edge thoroughly at the same time you're cleaning the guides.



An extract from ?Automotive Detailing, Inside & Out; Knowledge Base for the Perfectionist ?? TOGWT ? Ltd Copyright 2002-2009, all rights reserved.
This book will enable direct access to five decades of detailing knowledge and experience ​
 
I personally love the 1Z 'twins' for rubber seals.

1Z Plastik Reiniger is an excellent cleaner from plastic and rubber.

1Z Gummi Pheldge comes in a bottle with a sponge tip, like the old Kiwi Shoe Polish applicators. Apply thinnly and work in with the sponge tip, and let dry.
 
Yo stokdogs, I'll give you $1,000 for any unused original Gummi you got from the BMW store years ago! Just kidding BUT phenomenal stuff and I can't find it anymore (probably not VOC compliant).

I use 303 and the occasional 1Z Cockpit Premium.
 
I use either:
A) Poorboy's Natural Look
or
B) 1Z's Tiefenpfleger

Over a year ago I purchased a bottle of 1Z Gummi Pflege Stift (not a stick, but rather similar to a liquid shoe polish dispenser), but I have never used it.
 
Following the recommendation of Honda, I use Shin Etsu silicone grease on the rubber seals of my cars. I apply it twice a year. If the seals need to be cleaned in between, I use M40.
 
Hey Puckman !

I know what you mean ref Gummi Pflege :) Good thing I bought a case of it back in '2000 ! :) JUST KIDDING !!!! :)
I would have been happy to help you out, but I am down to one tube and that's the end of it! I believe as you, that it became non-compliant here so they quit selling it. If I ever run across any, I will let you know.
DanF
 
PB'S bold and bright/ trim restorer they seem to keep the rubber black and pliable. I also in the past have used silicone spray in aerosol can.
 
I have always been a user of good old silicone spray. It has never let me down It may not last long but for the money it works.
 
Wow silicone, haven't use that in many years. How about something new and great for your trim.........

1Z einszett Vinyl-Rubber Care and Protectant cleans, restores and protects all exterior and interior vinyl, rubber and plastic surfaces.

1Z einszett Rubber Care Stick "Gummi Pflege" cleans, conditions and protects weather rubber seals around car doors, windows, and trunk lids with a solvent-free water-based formula. 1Z einszett Rubber Care Stick "Gummi Pflege" prevents rubber from drying and cracking due to oxidation, heat, and UV exposure. Maintains elasticity and flexibility and will restore dried weather seals to original condition.

Last one I like is.........

Meguiar?s No. 40 Vinyl & Rubber Cleaner & Protectant is three products in one. This formula cleans any vinyl or rubber surface of dirt and grime and restores the original color and lustre. It has a strong UV sunscreen that protects against drying, fading and cracking.
 
I also use meg's #40. After it sets for a few minutes I return and wipe down a second time for a matt/clean look. In the winter time I might leave it on without a second wipe as to help the moulding from freezing shut. It's no fun to open the door after a coating of ice has covered a car to find the door moulding stuck to the door jam.Ouch.
Paul S
 
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