Author Topic: Rubber Seal Cleaner  (Read 2801 times)

Norm

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Rubber Seal Cleaner
« on: December 22, 2011, 19:14:36 »
I recently replaced several rubber seals on my convertible top and around my side windows with "new" seals from Mercedes.  My question now is,  if anyone has a suggestion for cleaning the "film" that developes on rubber parts that have been sitting around for a while?


Norm
Norm
1966 230SL 162H Blue-Grey
1994 Acura NSX Formula Red
2024 Acura RDX A-Spec, White Pearl
2016 Mercedes S63 AMG Coupe Obsidian Black
2011 Harley Davidson Super Glide Light / Dark Root Beer

wwheeler

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Re: Rubber Seal Cleaner
« Reply #1 on: December 22, 2011, 20:52:13 »
That waxy film is actually a protective coating that is compounded into the rubber when it is manfactured. Its purpose is to protect the rubber from ozone and UV rays which degrade and oxidize rubber quickly. This wax is incompatible with the rubber base which means it won't mix in to rubber compound. Over time, the wax slowly oozes out to the surface forming a protective layer. Eventually, the wax runs out and stops coming to the surface.

So for parts that are out of view, leave it on. For visible parts, I use 303 protectrant that has uv and ozone blockers in it. It will disslove the wax but takes a little time and rubbing. It is best to have at least some protection for the rubber.

I hope that helps.
Wallace
Texas
'68 280SE W111 coupe
'60 220SE W128 coupe
'70 Plymouth Roadrunner 440+6

Norm

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Re: Rubber Seal Cleaner
« Reply #2 on: December 22, 2011, 23:13:27 »
Thanks Wallace!

I used a little cleaner and some scraping with my fingernail.

All is good!!

Norm
Norm
1966 230SL 162H Blue-Grey
1994 Acura NSX Formula Red
2024 Acura RDX A-Spec, White Pearl
2016 Mercedes S63 AMG Coupe Obsidian Black
2011 Harley Davidson Super Glide Light / Dark Root Beer