sunroof gasket/moulding replace w/out removing the sunroof?

[Paul7002]

My Dad says its possible and swore it was in a old Roundel Tech Tips.

Tech Tips from June 1975 Roundel states "To replace the rear moulding requires removing the sunroof, except on the coupes..."

You think Pops is confused or is there really some secret sunroof trick?

[02fanatic]

It can probably be done, but it would take more time in my opinion to wiggle around with the sunroof panel in place installing the mouldings, as opposed to removing the panel and installing the moulding with wide open spaces.

Remember to "not" install the felt on "above" the roof line...keep it low. Otherwise it will stick up and look really bad with the roof closed. Tuck it under the panel at the rear sides, so when the panel closes up tight the felt will have a good seal.

I need to replace mine on the '76 again but I just don't have the time.

Any tips on best place to buy the two felt pieces? I used to use Bimmer Parts (best prices under the old ownership)...not too sure about now.

[SteveJ]

I have always done mine with the roof in place.

Remove both old seals and scrub the heck out of the area to remove all the old, flakey, dried adhesive. This is now the time to clean and lube the sunroof cables- keep the lube away from the area to be glued or wipe it all down with a solvent. Also, might as well check/test the sunroof drains.

The seals are installed with the cross section looking like a "P". The bulbous end goes up. The rear seal should go in as one piece at the end of the sunroof panel. The ends of the front seal may need to be trimmed.

With both seals off you will see that you can crank the sunroof panel a smidge more forward than usual. This gives you the working room to put in the rear seal. Or, as the roof is opened, the back edge drops down below the roofline. See which way gives you better access. As has been said, keep the seal below the roof line. It'll look like crap and also wear out sooner. Once the rear seal is glued in, close the roof so that the pressure of the roof holds the seal in place while it sets up.

After the rear seal is dried, open the roof all the way to install the front seal. Glue it in place and then close the sunroof panel onto it to hold it in place while it sets up.

[DukeRimmer]

I disagree with Dad, John, and Steve. Previous attempts to help others with this job got no respect, so email if you want my experience.

[Paul7002]

(nt)

[02fanatic]

Thanks Paul...if I can help further please e-mail me. Contrary to DukeRimmer's remarks, there are others of us that what we are doing. Glad to help further if I can....

[Guest]

What kind of glue would you recommend?

Thanks,

Lee

[SteveJ]

3M weatherstrip adhesive is really good and readily available. Comes in two flavors: Black as pitch, and Monkeysnot yellow. I prefer black.

Wurth has some good products which is strange when you hear how many problems that the Germans have with adhesives.

Either of these brands should do just fine.

[John_in_VA]

(nt)