I guys.
I have in my possession a new set of weather strips (door belts) from Rare Spares. Having read through some of the older posts on these (mostly related to LC/LJ), Im looking to install these into my LH. In general Im looking for ANY tips people could give before undertaking an install. A lot of the previous posts are pretty old and frankly a few of them scared the shit out of me - Im that handy with the non-engine bay stuff. Im hoping there is some update experiences and opinions.
Some of the questions, having read the previous posts, are:
- are people flagging the clips and using sealant/adhesives?
- do you need to drop the windows totally before installing?
- do they bother the operation of the windows?
- any special gear required?
I replaced the belt strips on my lx SS (Rare Spares items) about 12 months ago and I believe its the same process for the lh as well. Just take your time and you should be ok. This is how I did it.
FYI - I was doing a restoration on my hatch and colour change (back to original colour and trim) so I did remove the windows from the doors but you don't need to do that if you're only changing the door belts.
I did put the windows back in the doors before installing the new door belts as I did not want to damage the new door belts.
P.S. If you're changing the top vinyl strip (like I did) or repainting it, do it before fitting the new door belts.
Ok, this is how I did it.
1. Your need to remove the window winder, door handle, arm rest and door trim to gain access to the inside of the door.
2. As my windows slid up and down nicely, I marked the washers around the window adjuster in black permanent marker. This makes it easier when re-aligning the window/re-install.
3. I removed my windows due to painting but you don't need to do this. If you're only replacing the door belts I would suggest loosening both of the centre window adjusters and lowering the window down as far as possible. You could also slide the window out and just leave it inside the door which gives you a little bit more room for your hands.
4. Remove the old door belts. This is where the fun starts. I was able to clamp/squash some of the original clips using a multi grips. I had to break some of the clips using force from a flat bladed screwdriver. Once I removed the old door belts, I used a pair of pliers to straighten the underside of the metal which attached to the door belts.
5. At this stage, I fitted the new vinyl door strip before fitting the new door belts.
Here's a couple of pic's showing the new vinyl fitted and the door ready for fitting new strips. You can see the window mechanism in the door and the small white adjuster wheels.
6. Now I tested fitted 1 x belt strip. I don't think it matters whether you do the inside or outside first but I did the outside first. The belt strip seemed abit long and I couldn't get it flush against the door but don't trim it.
I started pressing in the clips from the middle of the door and working my way towards the outside. The door belt fitted well and tucked under the bailey channel frame of the window nicely. I could press in 3 out of 4 clips using my finger and thumb but some clips needed some extra force using a flat bladed screwdriver.
7. I then fitted the inner door belt using the same procedure and this is how it looked.
Big difference from before and as tight as a Nun's faxxy.
8. I then put the window back into the bailey channel and secured the window adjuster back to the original position that was marked in permanent marker.
9. Put the window winder handle back on (without the circlip) and move the window up and down a few times. There is a bit of friction and its a bit tight (like the first time) but it does loosen up like ..... I better not go there.
10. Check inside the door and make sure everything is good. Perfect time for some rust protection and then just refit door trim, handles etc.
11. Time for a cool drink and admire your handywork.
Cheers Mick.
P.S. No special tools needed, - recommend using multi grips, flat bladed screw driver and a pair or pliers. No sealant or adhesive required. Beer optional but recommeded when finished.
If you don't drink beer, just replace with Jack Daniels or whatever you like.
Edited by lxsstorana, 09 September 2013 - 01:38 PM.
