installation tip request for "A" pillar gasket

[merrill]

hello
I recently purchased 2 new "A" pillar gaskets for my 66 230.

it seemed as if they would just slide into the metal channels but after a few inches there is too much friction.

i had thought of using some soapy water or another lubricant but thought i would as the group for tips.



thank you
matt

[mbzse]

.../..."A" pillar gaskets.../...it seemed as if they would just slide into the metal channels.../...

Like you experienced, friction prevents the sliding method...
Put the seals in "sideways", one side into the metal flange. Then push in other side step by step, by means of nylon spatula - voila!

[Jonny B]

Is there a bit of confusion here. The picture Hans posted of the brown soft top shows the "B" pillar. The A pillar is at the windshield, yes?

[mbzse]

.../... The A pillar is at the windshield, yes?

Certainly.
However, the rubber pieces and their fitting into the metal channel is the same. Just didn't have a picture of the the "A" pillar at hand yesterday when I replied...

[merrill]

Hans
thanks,  your technique worked.

by chance did you have to cut the new gaskets to length?   the ones from the mb classic center are about 1/2 inch or so long.

[mbzse]

.../...did you have to cut the new gaskets to length?

Yes, for sure. Work slow, and be careful with the cuts to get the angles at each end of rubbers precise. So that they join with minimum gap.
And take care. Remember, once they are cut you can't make them longer...

I have found a cutting tool like this one to be quite useful

[Mike Hughes]

"Measure twice, cut once!"  ;^)

[merrill]

Mike
yes!

I think I will put up the soft top and make sure there is a nice seal between the top of the "A" pillar seal and the soft top gasket.
and then cut the lower portion

i am not too worried about the hard top as it hasn't been on the car since 2005