How to Replace the Weatherstripping on an SVO


Copyright 1997 Allen Roberts

Howdy! I thought I'd combine a How To article with a new product review this time.

In the May 1997 issue of Mustang Monthly on Page 28, Late Model Door Weatherstripping is reviewed. I read this article closely. The weatherstripping for '79-'93 Mustangs appeared to be easy to install and was a cheaper alternative to OEM weatherstripping.

I called Classic Mustang in Southington, CT at 860-276-9704 to inquire about the price and found out that for $30 a door you can get weatherstripping that is easy to install, does wonders for wind noise, and won't break the bank!

The Mustang Monthly article details the procedures necessary to install the replacement weatherstripping and is complete with photos. The only tool I had to buy was a pair of Craftsman Utility Cutters (P/N 37200) for $19.99.

Without going into great detail, here are the steps:

  1. Remove the scuff plate along the rocker panel then remove the front kick panel at the door you are working on.

  2. Carefully pry off the upper trim at the edge of the headliner.

  3. Remove the cover over the seatbelt swivel mounted on the "B" pillar then using a #T50 TORX bit, remove the seatbelt D-ring.

  4. Go down to the "B" pillar trim and remove the two Phillips screws.

  5. Go to the "A" pillar and remove the two Phillips screws.

    At this point, everything should be loose enough to remove the old weatherstripping. Take note of the start and end of the weatherstripping as you will want to duplicate the routing.

  6. Pull up on the weatherstripping to start the removal and continue pulling up on it until you have removed it all.

    Now comes the fun part! Make sure the replacement rubber has a neat straight edge before starting.

  7. Begin installing the new rubber at the point where the old stripping started. (Mine fit very well and was easy to install).

  8. Don't stretch the new rubber as you feed it into place around the door opening! There is more than enough to go around.

  9. When you get back around to the starting point, cut the remainder off, making sure there is a flush edge to go up against the other end.

  10. Reverse the disassembly of the trim and you're done!

The weatherstripping is as good as OEM if not better. The only problem you should encounter will be when you try to close your doors after the new rubber is in.

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