When Ford redesigned the Mustang for 1969, it also redesigned the doors and windows. With each Mustang redesign has come fewer and fewer parts to both simplify vehicle assembly and improve cost per unit. Weatherstripping is no exception. There was less of it for '69-'70 along with improved sealing. Instead of parting the door and roof rail weatherstripping at the door's leading edge on top, Ford moved this annoying gap lower toward the door bottom to shut out wind noise and moisture. We're going to take you to Mustangs Etc's new shop in Southern California's San Fernando Valley to show you how professionals perform weatherstrip replacement and how you can achieve the same outstanding results.
Mustang door weatherstripping...
Mustang door weatherstripping for '69-'70 hardtop, convertible, and SportsRoof isn't much different than what we find for '65-'68. Available from Virginia Classic Mustang, it glues on using 3M's Weatherstrip adhesive #8011 and is retained at each end with black anodized sheetmetal screws.
Gilbert Bravo of Mustangs...
Gilbert Bravo of Mustangs Etc. has installed weatherstripping on untold thousands of classic Mustangs through the years. Although you might be tempted to use 3M's Super Weatherstrip Adhesive #8008, Gilbert suggests 3M's Weatherstrip Adhesive #8011 (right, in the red box) for best results.
If you've ever had trouble...
If you've ever had trouble with glue-on weatherstripping coming off, Gilbert will tell you improper preparation was the cause. All weatherstripping should be cleaned thoroughly with brake cleaner to remove the rubber release agent used during manufacture. The release agent is what keeps weatherstripping from sticking.
All contact surfaces must...
All contact surfaces must be hospital clean, which means free of silicone, rubbing compound, and other contaminants. Use surface prep cleaner or brake cleaner to prevent paint damage.
Gilbert uses 3M Weatherstrip...
Gilbert uses 3M Weatherstrip Adhesive #8011 in very limited amounts to prevent oozing. Although some restorers use yellow, Gilbert stresses the use of black.
Once applied, use an acid...
Once applied, use an acid brush to spread the adhesive. Weatherstrip Adhesive is also applied to the door and allowed to tack off (get sticky) before installation. You want this stuff tacky, but not dry when installation begins.
Installation begins at the...
Installation begins at the door jam with three black anodized sheetmetal screws. Snug them down, but do not tighten until weatherstrip installation is complete.
With Weatherstrip Adhesive...
With Weatherstrip Adhesive tacky, Gilbert presses the weatherstrip into place following the door's perimeter.
Door weatherstrip is screwed...
Door weatherstrip is screwed into place here before working all of it into place. This allows Gilbert to take up any slack in the middle.