>Jason, over the years here on the list there have positive and negative
>replies to that question. I've never done it but I know I'm never going to
>replace another one. I assume the trim serves a useful purpose during the
>new install or window replacement. Perhaps it helps in setting up a good
>bond between the rubber and the Vanagon metal window frame opening. However
>as the years go by and the trim piece turns ugly my guess is the trim could
>be removed and not replaced without any ill effect. But that's just a guess!

My suspicion is that when fresh and flexible the seal needs the trim
piece. However as the seal ages it becomes stiffer with exposure to
ultraviolet, and therefore removal of the trim will be less likely to
allow the trim to pull in against the glass and begin to leak against
the metal.
--
Andrew Grebneff
Dunedin, New Zealand
64 (3) 453-4436
<andrew.grebneff@stonebow.otago.ac.nz>
Fossil preparator
Seashell, Macintosh & VW/Toyota van nut
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A: Because it reverses the logical flow of conversation.
Q: Why is top posting frowned upon?