How to Install Pillar Post Weatherstripping

Overview

Pillar post weatherstripping (also called A-pillar seals or hinge pillar seals) attaches to the body at the windshield pillar area and seals against the door or vent window frame when closed. These seals are critical for eliminating wind noise, water leaks, and dust infiltration on both hardtops and convertibles.

Tools & Materials Needed

• Complete Installation Kit (GLK-1) — includes adhesive, tools & gloves
• 3M Black Weatherstrip Adhesive (GL-11)
• 7-Piece Trim & Pry Tool Set (GL-30)
• Clean rags and prep solvent
• Screwdriver (if screw-mounted application)

Hardtop vs. Convertible Differences

Vehicle Type	Seal Location	Key Notes
Hardtop	Seals into A-pillar channel against door window frame	Often uses channel-mount design
Convertible	Seals between pillar and vent window frame	Must seal tightly to prevent leaks with top up

Installation Steps

Step 1: Remove Old Weatherstrip

1. Open the door fully for access
2. Screw-mounted seals: Remove screws (typically 2–4) at the lower portion, then peel upward
3. Glue-on seals: Start at one end and slowly peel away; use a trim tool if needed
4. Channel-mounted seals: Gently pull the seal out of the retaining channel

Step 2: Prepare the Mounting Surface

1. Remove all old adhesive residue—a plastic scraper and prep solvent work best
2. Clean the channel or mounting surface thoroughly
3. Inspect for rust or damage; treat any rust before installing new seals
4. Allow surface to dry completely

⚠️ Important: For convertibles, water intrusion around the A-pillar is common. Ensure the mounting surface has no pinholes or gaps in the body.

Step 3: Identify Left vs. Right (If Applicable)

Many molded pillar post seals are side-specific:

• Red Dot = Driver Side (Left)
• Green Dot = Passenger Side (Right)

Check your seals for colored dots before installation.

Step 4: Dry-Fit the Seal

1. Position the seal without adhesive
2. Verify proper alignment at the top (near the windshield corner) and bottom (near the door hinge)
3. Confirm the seal's bulb or sealing lip faces the correct direction (toward the door/vent window)

Step 5: Install the Seal

For Screw-Mounted Applications:

1. Position the seal and align screw holes
2. Install lower screws first, then work upward
3. Apply a small bead of adhesive along edges for enhanced sealing

For Glue-On Applications:

1. Apply a thin bead of 3M Black Weatherstrip Adhesive (GL-11) to the mounting surface
2. Wait until tacky (2–3 minutes)
3. Press seal firmly into place, starting at the top
4. Smooth downward, ensuring full contact along the entire length

For Channel-Mounted Applications:

1. Apply small dots of adhesive inside the channel at 6-inch intervals
2. Starting at the top, press the seal into the channel
3. Use a trim tool to seat the seal fully into the channel

Step 6: Verify Seal Contact

1. Close the door slowly
2. The seal should compress evenly against the door frame or vent window frame
3. Check for gaps—add adhesive where needed

Pro Tips

• Convertible owners: Test with a water hose before reassembling interior trim
• For enhanced adhesion: On vertical seals, consider using Metro's steel-core versions (designated with "-M" suffix) for superior rigidity
• Allow 24 hours cure time before extended driving