Topic: NOS weatherstrip conditioning

[Hipo giddyup]

 I was just curious if anyone uses a special technique to condition older NOS weatherstripping. I recently bought a pair of NOS quarter window moldings which seemed fine but I was wondering if there is some type of a conditioner to keep them soft and supple. Thanks for any input

[KevinK]

More modern weatherstripping (80s and 90s) is suggested to be coated with silicon spray periodically.  I don't know how this affects its lifetime.  Once it starts to turn brown or oxidized, I think its too late.

[Hipo giddyup]

Thanks for the reply. These look dirty so I will have to clean them up first to remove the dust and dirt. Then I was thinking of wipIng them down with a silicone spray or perhaps a rubber protectant (amor all?)

[CharlesTurner]

As long as the car doesn't sit outside and go through temperature cycles like normal everyday cars, the rubber will be fine.  I would clean them with solvent, then apply a conditioner.   Wurth sells a nice rubber conditioner.  I've been using a liquid wrench product that is really nice too.  Can spray on just about anything and it leaves a protective coating without a residue or high shine.  I keep a thick microfiber cloth soaked with it and wipe parts down followed by another cloth to wipe dry.

https://www.amazon.com/Liquid-Wrench-LC9-6-6PK-Inhibitor/dp/B01ALQPO1W

[Hipo giddyup]

Thanks Charles, good info. My Dad used to use WD40 over some parts on his engine and it worked not only as a protectant but left a clean shine.. Guess he was on to something.
 What "solvent" do you have in mind, actual paint thinner?, parts cleaner, or a cleaner such as simple green?

[CharlesTurner]

Start with a less potent like mineral spirits.  I also like Ardex 6214 brand solvent.

WD-40 won't do much for protection.

[carlite65]

Thanks for the reply. These look dirty so I will have to clean them up first to remove the dust and dirt. Then I was thinking of wipIng them down with a silicone spray or perhaps a rubber protectant (amor all?)

please, please do not use armor all on anything. i will not even allow that in my shop.

[J_Speegle]

please, please do not use armor all on anything. i will not even allow that in my shop.

+++1 The stuff has been banned from my cars and shop for decades. There is a reason why uphostery companies will void any warranty if you use this stuff on seats or other interior stuff.

For a number of years I've been using a product but it can't be legally ordered in some areas. Think its based on coconut oil and the European car guys use to soften and condition original weatherstripping. Think I found it through a Por*** web site

Will find a bottle of it and get the name. There is another product I've seen but not used that goes on with what looks like a old style shoe polish applicator.

[Hipo giddyup]

Thanks Jeff.. Waiting patiently for the name

[mgmradio]

I use WD40 on all the rubber on my Unrestored cars. Cleans the rubber and seems to protect it.

[aaatp]

I use WD40 as well on all my rubber parts including my dash pad and have had great success.

John

[J_Speegle]

Thanks Jeff.. Waiting patiently for the name

Ok finally got around and found a bottle of what I've been using for a few years. For some reasons its not legal in Calif to purchase   



Now there are other products out there that others have had success with but I've not had cause to try any of these but will likely when I have a need again

For your and other member's consideration - These are very popular on other sites and forums of other makes and models of cars.

Gummi Pflege Stift' Rubber Care Stick 
Dielectric grease in a tube not a spray

Krytox GPL-105, or equivalent

[Hipo giddyup]

Thanks Jeff, I have seen this locally and will pick up a bottle the next time I'm at the auto parts store. 

[Building 3]

Just ordered a bottle from Amazon.  Not cheap at $30 for 8.5 oz. It contains: glycerin, aloe vera, coconut oil. (sounds like a hand lotion) It does not contain: solvents, silicones, formaldehyde.

[J_Speegle]

On smaller rubber parts I've rubbed some on the surface and sealed the part up in a heavy zip lock bag for a day or two. This will allow you to rub it into the surface and improve coverage and contact. Remember to "burp" any air out of the bag before you marinate the part 

Has worked for me but nothing is a miracle