�ric,

A search of the archives ( http://gerry.vanagon.com/archives/vanagon.html )
will yield a number of messages over the years on the subject of removing
that chrome trim locking-strip from the rubber molding. User feedback was
varied with strong opinions that it was OK to remove the locking-strip and a
number of replies that it was unwise and could lead to leaking windows
(especially the windshield). I got the feeling that the list members who
advised against removal were in the majority. However those results may be
due to repeat messages from the same persons over the years searched.

This is an area that concerns me and I performed a complete internet search
yesterday. I found the majority of non-Vanagon automobile owners advised
against removal without replacement. IOW, they thought the locking-strip
served a useful function and removal would compromise the system.

I would love to pry mine out and I still may risk it. However, for now I am
leaning towards leaving them alone and living with it, or to bite the bullet
and buy the correct installer's tool plus chrome or black locking-strip and
redo all my windows.

Garrett Adams
83.5 Adventurewagen GL
Stockton, California

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com]On Behalf
Of Giroux, Eric
Sent: Thursday, May 04, 2000 5:09 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Window chrome moulding

All,

Do the chrome molding in the window seals server a purpose?  Mine are all
faded and greenish. Can I just pry them out and discard?

�ric