Stainless Trim Retainer & Clips

[Deleted User]
edited November -1 in HUDSON
Need recommendations necessary to install stainless trim around front and rear windows, when we removed trim the retainers aren't suitable to re-use again. Was thinking we could cut and use best part of curved retainer, but decided against it. Has anyone used alternative to retainers in question, also clips required for left/right wide stainless pieces on door and above rear quater panel? I have already purchased stainless retainer which require cutting from K-Gap for center trim pieces installation.



Thanks,



Ray

Comments

  • If you don't want to (or can't) use original style clips and retainers you could try 3M Weatherstrip Adhesive 08011 on the front and rear windshield trim.



    3M (and other companies) sell products similar to 08011... but some of them contain MEK (methyl ethyl ketone) which can damage paint and other finishes. 3M Weatherstrip Adhesive 08011 does not contain MEK!



    For other trim pieces (including side trim) you might consider a double sided trim tape... 3M sells this in different widths on a roll. Your local automotive paint store can hook you up. Most of the time I reinstall trim with this and you'll find newer vehicles use this method almost exclusively.



    Be careful if you decide to buy this type of product from an auto parts, department or home improvement store as there are various "strengths" and quality available...



    Good Luck!



    Craig
  • russmaas
    russmaas Senior Contributor
    Best bet to call Al Saffrahn in AZ. Has nice sheet metal cars and the retainers would be very decent also. Just tell him your needs.
  • Good Morning Craig,



    Thank you for recommendations which Allen and I discussed yesterday as alternative that if we couldn't get proper retainers/clips we would use method you mentioned...Our concerns were paint & stainless damage if trim ever had to be removed? However we didn't know about difference in vaious brands strenght and your tip with past expereince and information is helpful and appreciated. My Hornet is close to being finished and trim installation is one of the reasons for delay.



    Thanks again,



    Ray
  • Good Morning Russ,



    I checked with Al and retainers/clips he has are probably in same or worst condition than mine...Thinking out loud, has anyone used Velcor to secure moldings etc., only problem living in high summer temperature Las Vegas desert wondering if Velcor will still hold trim, either that or Craig's recommendations that I am forced to use.?



    Thanks,



    Ray
  • Ol racer
    Ol racer Senior Contributor
    FYI



    If this helps anyone,



    I get all my Hudson Fastners from RJ & L Automotive Obsolete Fastners PO Box 143, Penfield NY, 14526 - 9998. 315 986 7121



    They require a Sample mailed to them and they will usually match it with something that will work satisfactorily....
  • Ray wrote:
    Good Morning Craig,



    Thank you for recommendations which Allen and I discussed yesterday as alternative that if we couldn't get proper retainers/clips we would use method you mentioned...Our concerns were paint & stainless damage if trim ever had to be removed? However we didn't know about difference in vaious brands strenght and your tip with past expereince and information is helpful and appreciated. My Hornet is close to being finished and trim installation is one of the reasons for delay.



    Thanks again,



    Ray





    Removal of trim attached with double stick tape is not a problem... hopefully you won't have to remove the trim anytime soon after a restoration!:) You should install the trim after the paint has cured and you should have no problem removing if you have to. I use a plastic (Bondo) spreader to protect the finish and gently use a putty knife (of various widths) to get under the trim and slowly lift/ slide to remove the trim. Soapy water in a spray bottle helps lubricate as you go. A couple of spreaders can be used as wedges as you work you way down the trim. You can also use a spreader as you would a putty knife. There are plastic putty knifes and scrapers out there that can be used as well. You can also use dental floss or fishing line and slide it down the trim... a little harder to do with some trim pieces that have sharp edges that cut the floss.



    Removing trim around windshields is always tricky regardless of attachment method. Just take your time and you can remove the trim... regardless of method used to attach you risk bending and denting trim anytime you try to uninstall. Watch out working around the edges of windshield glass... you can easily chip the edge while prying. A chipped edge usually results in a crack down the road...
  • Good Morning Craig,



    Thanks for your comprehensive step by step informative email which I'll pass onto to Allen and after talking to him yesterday decided we'll install trim as per your method recommended. I certainly hope in my lifetime trim removal will never be necessary.



    Once again thanks,



    Ray
  • Ray wrote:
    Good Morning Craig,



    Thanks for your comprehensive step by step informative email which I'll pass onto to Allen and after talking to him yesterday decided we'll install trim as per your method recommended. I certainly hope in my lifetime trim removal will never be necessary.



    Once again thanks,



    Ray



    You're welcome Ray...



    Craig
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