Sunroof seal - aftermarket / fix

[TUS373]

I have an old Lexus RX that I still enjoy owning. Its 14 years old, and had it from new. Inevitably, things do need attention from time to time.

I think the rubber seal on the sunroof would benefit from replacement, but Lexus do not sell that as a part, only with the sunroof glass, so 10 times the price. Having researched it, I conclude that there is indeed no part number listed, so I need an alternative fix.

Before I get answers - I know how to check for leaks, and I know that I could silicone up the sunroof and seal it from the elements, but that would put it out of service.

So....anyone got any information as to where I could get an equivalent part (aftermarket) or one made up, or somewhere in the West Yorkshire (Halifax, Bradford, Leeds) or Manchester areas that could attend to it?

with thanks.

[E-bmw]

Have you checked that the drains are clear, as that is more frequently the actual problem, as the seal is very rarely a true seal.

[QJumper]

If the leak isn't too bad, and it's definitety coming from the seal and not blocked drains, then it might be worth trying something like Captain Tolleys Creeping Crack Cure. I've used it with some success on windscreen and door seal leaks.

[TUS373]

E-bmw said:

Have you checked that the drains are clear, as that is more frequently the actual problem, as the seal is very rarely a true seal.

No - they were clogged, but at the bottom end. Still too much water through the seal for my liking though, not like when new.

[turbobloke]

TUS373 said:

E-bmw said:

Have you checked that the drains are clear, as that is more frequently the actual problem, as the seal is very rarely a true seal.

No - they were clogged, but at the bottom end. Still too much water through the seal for my liking though, not like when new.

I'm not a mechanic so can't tell if the info/advice I get is sound or bull, but on two occasions now I've been told the same thing by Porsche and BMW independent techs formerly main dealer top spannering people, i.e. the seal isn't a seal it's going to let water in from new, so the drainage channels need to be clear as a bell. I've known the bicycle pump method to work as well as an air line, maybe worth another go? If not, don't shoot the messenger, ta.

[E-bmw]

TUS373 said:

E-bmw said:

Have you checked that the drains are clear, as that is more frequently the actual problem, as the seal is very rarely a true seal.

No - they were clogged, but at the bottom end. Still too much water through the seal for my liking though, not like when new.

Have you tried looking for your local windscreen replacement company.

I am not saying they will have a match, but "old-school" windscreen rubber manufacturers may be able to make something up the same, maybe worth a try.

[Hereward]

Try a few applications of Gummi Pflege to see if some elasticity can be brought back to the rubber.

[paintman]

Couple of random googles that might be worth a look:
www.sealsdirect.co.uk
www.thevehicleglasscompany.co.uk

[TUS373]

Thank you for the suggestions. I have heard of Gummi Flege. Might get some to try on all seals on the cars.

Thanks for the link to sealsdirect. Amazing what companies are out there. Great options. Thank you.

[twibs]

coh baines and East Kent trims are another couple of places that might be able to help.