Curved Lens Gaskets

[Ooooner]

I bought new front curved lens gaskets from OGTS and have been trying to install them without much luck. The ones I am installing are the gaskets that go between the body and lens housing. It seems I can't keep it in place all the way around the housing while putting the screws in. It just keeps moving and I can't get it right. Any suggestions from someone who has done this before?

Thanks!

[namba209]

Roy, a little bit of grease or "Vaseline" on the gasket will help hold it in place, that and a real thin screwdriver, to move it back under the assembly if it does move. Oh yeah, and lotsa patience.

[Ooooner]

Ron, Believe me when I say I will take my time and not loose my cool.... Well.... I will take my time. Vaseline is a good idea. I'll give that a shot. I had actually thought about using some contact cement but I figured that would eat up the gasket. The small screw driver is already sitting there waiting to used, too!

Thanks,

[Killer Texas GT]

I used some rubber cement (contact adhesive) sparingly on the gasket to hold it to the curved light assembly. Being careful not to get it on the side that seals to the car, so it won't hurt the paint and allows for service removal later. It worked quite well, the same for the rear side makers, but apply it to the gasket on one side till it is almost dry(tacky) and then apply the gasket to the side maker, if you put it on while it is still too wet it can melt down the sealer on the chrome and bleed through the chrome.

[baronbors]

I had a world of trouble with mine too. Here is what I did. I took blue painters tape and cut it into small 1/2 inch strips. I then taped the gasket to the lens housing with about a 1/4 inch of the tape sicking over the edge of the lens- these make the handles. I then placed the lens and gasket onto the body and started the screws. Tighten the screws until there is just a slight pressure between the gasket and the body. Then either grab the handle of tape and gently pull the tape out from between the gasket and the body or take a razor blade knife and carefully cut it off. Worked well on the second one while the first one was my learning curve.

[markandson]

I have not done this yet but I have installed many extremely difficult gaskets when doing my VW Ghia. I use Goop, it comes in various types like household, outdoor, marine, etc. I am not sure of the difference but the one I am using now I get in autoparts stores and it is Automotive Goop. This stuff acts like contact cement or glue, if you don't give it the drying time. It is clear, and although it is very powerful, you can get it off if you have to. It is not solvent based so I have not found any plastic or rubber that it is not safe with. It also does not hurt the paint on your car. I sound like a Goop salesman... I love this stuff. By the way, I apply it with those black bristled throw away brushes. I first put the brush in my vise and squeeze the metal so the bristles are in tight, then I use a scissor and cut the bristles down to about 1/4" long, that way I have a nice stiff brush that can be used to accurately spread the Goop.

[GTJIM]

Another option is to use clear RTV and run a small bead around the housing before fitting it. Nice waterproof seal that will last for ages.