New tail light gaskets cause trim to not fit

[scoot]

We replaced the tail light gaskets on our 250 SL and it causes the tail lights to have a small rubber gasket gap between the chrome and body of the car.  This in turn causes the trim between the trunk lock and the tail lights to have a gap between the trim and the car body near the tail lights on each side.  Did I do something wrong?  Am I not tightening down the tail lights enough?  Did I put the gaskets in backwards?   I'm confused...   thanks, Scott

[Anfinn]

I experienced the same thing when test-fitting the new gaskets on my 280SL. I left them on for 24 hours to see if they would give and shrink a bit, but no joy.
Then I received the latest Mercedes-Benz Classic Magazine. Inside was an article about replacement rubber parts for classics. ("Black Gold")
It stated that if rubber seals are too generously dimensioned, they can be sanded down to fit. I have not tried this on mine yet.

(The magazine also featured a nice 230SL in Ireland)