Belt trim install

[cdn97986]

I picked up a set of the 02Bumpers belt trim over the holidays when it was on sale for my '75. This set uses the t-fasteners for all of the mounts outside of the forward ones on each door, which still need to uses a plastic clips there. I have the rear interior trim panels out as part of my interior refurb, so all of the mounting points for the quarter trim are exposed for the install. I had seen some comments in my searches for where the t-fasteners were originally used by the factory, like the front mount in the quarter panel, that it was suggested to use some "dum-dum" or strip caulk to seal from leaks, Is this applied in a blob after installing the from the inside, or should some go around the post when inserting the threaded portion through the mounting holes? I did treat my mounting holes with some POR-15 to make sure they are protected, although most looked OK. My car had stick-on trim that had really tarnished, but looks to have protected the mounting holes pretty well.

 

Thanks,

 

Craig

[2002iii]

First WOW! that's a lot of tiny nuts to fasten.

 

Did the they come with any instructions?

 

I don't think you really need anything to seal them, but if you want something I would put a dab of silicone sealer around the threads before putting them through the mounting holes.

[Billsmith]

Not sure the “dum dum” is needed at the end of each piece.  I would use it lightly if at all.  From having put new belt line trim on my ‘73 Tii, I can tell you to take care not to force anything.  The trim is very easy to bend but impossible to bend back right.  As others have said on this forum, take care to “massage’ trim in place.  The most challenging spots are at the four corners where the trim piece covers the junction of two pieces of trim.  Here, you will need to loosely fit the parts together prior to firmly and simultaneously tightening the bolted “T” brackets evenly to avoid bending the trim.  

[2002iii]

On 2/23/2021 at 8:28 AM, Billsmith said:

Not sure the “dum dum” is needed at the end of each piece.  I would use it lightly if at all.  From having put new belt line trim on my ‘73 Tii, I can tell you to take care not to force anything.  The trim is very easy to bend but impossible to bend back right.  As others have said on this forum, take care to “massage’ trim in place.  The most challenging spots are at the four corners where the trim piece covers the junction of two pieces of trim.  Here, you will need to loosely fit the parts together prior to firmly and simultaneously tightening the bolted “T” brackets evenly to avoid bending the trim.  

The factory trim is aluminum, so it bends very easily. The 02bumpers trim is stainless steel and should be a little less bendy. But yes go slowly and take your time, I can tell you from experience that it's not hard to screw up, especially if your frustrated. If you get frustrated take a step back, go relax and come back when you feel calm and collected. Also look at pictures online.