Chrome Trim on Westfalia Windows

[Blue Moonraker]

Just wondering if anyone has replaced the Chrome trim inserts their on Westfalia windows ? If so any tips for an easy fit ?

[CovKid]

Yes you can and theres a tool for the job to make it easier. Good place to start would be http://www.sealsdirect.co.uk/bbCMS/shop ... tmentId=68" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

If you have the same on your windscreen, Chris at http://www.volkswagenemporium.co.uk/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; has the windscreen rubber and chrome insert on the shelf (just ordered one myself). You might consider replacing that as they're prone to shrink/perish and let water into cab (if its not already happening). Have a feeling that seal is rapidly becoming obsolete so you may want to order one!

[Red Westie]

Just like VW to make things complicated.....front and rear screens use one type of chrome insert....the remainding side windows use a different type.
I brought a piece for the rear on mine (front w/sreen and seal have been changed for solid)
But despite seeing several adverts for the other type, I have yet to see it advertvertised in long enough lengths and at a sensible price.
Always enough to do just 1 and 1/2 windows so wasteful and stupidly expensive.
Infact cheaper just to replace the seals with solids.....which is a real shame.


Martin

[CovKid]

Agree there. Have yet to find a source for Caravelle side windows. Solid ones are easy enough to find but....

Mind you, last year I just masked everything but the trim and sprayed them with a chrome-finish aerosol. Not ideal but tidied them up short term.

The one sealsdirect lists may be close though.

[Blue Moonraker]

Thanks CovKid and Red Westie for your answers. We had a rear window replacement trim in our Westy when we bought it and have been told to soften it in warm water before fitting, also to wait for a warm day to do it. Various suggestion's (by friends/T25 Neighbour) to fit include use two screwdrivers, vaseline, soap..... no rude remarks please...... We plan to give it a go if it ever warms up.

Red Westie, We also have a solid rubber in the screen and have just discovered damp under the front carpet footwells....another job on the list.....
CovKid, Thought about painting but one is badly damaged so will see how the rear window goes.

[CovKid]

Theres a special tool for fitting the insert, looks like a screwdriver but with a wire diamond shape the other end which slides along the insert but opens the rubber up. You could almost certainly make one.