I have spent the money on new seals twice and have had really good luck por15ing all window areas while the windows are out, before a respray.  The key to sealling in my eyes is using a sealant and getting it where you need it and not elsewhere during installation.  

----- Original Message ----
From: "JordanVw@AOL.COM" <JordanVw@AOL.COM>
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Sent: Saturday, February 3, 2007 1:35:44 PM
Subject: Re: Window seals causing rust?

In a message dated 2/3/07 1:25:35 PM Eastern Standard Time, npoole@TELUS.NET
writes:

> I'm trying to decide if I should replace my window seals. There are no
> leaks
> at this point, but beneath the slider windows there are the beginnings of
> some rust. I've heard the opinion if water gets under the seals it means
> that they should be replaced, but I had assumed that they simply functioned
> to keep water out of van, and this rust is just the result of 27 years of
> water collecting under the rubber. I obviously wouldn't want to spend
> $500.00 on window seals if they are functioning as they should. If, however,
> water is not supposed to be able to collect under the rubber, they need to
> be replaced when I remove them to treat the rust.
>
>

yes and no..   all it takes is alittle dirt or salt to get under the seal,
get wet,  corrode a chip, or whatever..fester for 20 years, and you have rust..
if youve got rust under the seals, the right way to do it is remove them
anyway and fix the rust and repaint the area, then put new seals on.
but i wouldnt go replacing seals that dont have any rust issues under them..

chris