TARGA ROOF TO WINDOW SEAL
The biggest problem we see with installing these seals is that most people try to pull the seals on the roof at the top of the window. Yes they can be pulled through the track, and you think that you have relieved all the tension, but in a month or more, the vibration / expansion and contraction will eventually allow the runner to return to the unstretched shape. Rubber has memory, and will do this, so even a small amount of stress will eventually cause this seal to mysteriously shrink.
The only way to avoid this is to install the outside edge 1st and them press in the inner edge. We make the seal about 1/4“ longer than you think you will need. Install the roof and try to close the front latch. You will notice the seal will “beer can”or crumple in. Take a carpet knife and warm soapy water and shave off up to 1/8” and retry. Continue the process until you can see that seal is actually making contact and is under pressure, but not so much that it deforms the seal. This will allow for the best possible fit. The rubber shrinks over time so the old one will have more clearance.
Our seal is designed for an exact fit. The real key is to use a large flat screwdriver. Something with about a 1/2“ width. You will literally be pressing it in about 1;/2” at a pop. It takes time and is more difficult to install that it appears it should be, but you will reduce wind noise and make a tight fit.
Parts from 914 Rubber: