Difficulty: Moderate–Advanced | Time: 2–3 hours per door | Tools Required: See below
What Is a Division Bar Seal?
The division bar seal (also called vent window vertical seal or vent post weatherstrip) is the rubber strip mounted on the vertical metal bar that separates the vent window from the main door glass.
- One side of the division bar seals against the vent window when closed
- Other side seals the main roll-up glass as it travels
This seal is typically secured with rivets or screws to the division bar assembly.
Tools & Materials Needed
- Complete Installation Kit (GLK-1)
- Rivet gun with appropriate rivets (if your application uses rivets)
- Drill with small bit (1/8") for rivet removal
- Screwdriver set
- Soapy water or silicone-free lubricant
- Nitrile Gloves (GL-10)
- Clean cloths
Note: Some applications require a specialized Rivet Installation Tool for the division bar. If your seal attaches via rivets and you don't have this tool, a standard rivet gun will work—just take your time.
Step-by-Step Installation
Step 1: Remove the Door Panel
- Remove interior door handle and window crank (if applicable).
- Remove all door panel clips or screws.
- Carefully remove the panel and set aside.
Step 2: Remove the Vent Window Assembly
- Depending on your vehicle, you may need to remove the entire vent window assembly for access.
- Disconnect any linkage or pivot hardware.
- Remove mounting bolts securing the assembly to the door.
Step 3: Remove the Old Division Bar Seal
- If attached with rivets: Drill out the rivet heads with a small bit.
- If attached with screws: Remove screws.
- Peel away the old rubber seal from the division bar channel.
- Clean all old adhesive and debris from the metal channel.
Step 4: Prepare the New Seal
- Compare the new seal to the old one—note orientation (the seal has a "glass side" and "vent side").
- Apply soapy water to help slide the seal into position.
Step 5: Install the New Seal
- Position the seal into the division bar channel.
- Starting at one end, press the seal firmly into the channel groove.
- If using rivets: Align holes and install new rivets using your rivet gun. Work from one end to the other.
- If using screws: Install screws through the pre-drilled holes in the seal backing.
Pro Tip: If access is tight inside the door, you may find it easier to install the seal onto the division bar before reinstalling the bar into the door.
Step 6: Reinstall the Vent Window Assembly
- Position the assembly back into the door.
- Reconnect all pivots, linkage, and mounting bolts.
- Test vent window operation before closing up.
Step 7: Test & Adjust
- With the door panel still off, operate both the vent window and main glass.
- The vent window should seal tightly against the division bar seal when closed.
- The main glass should glide smoothly along the other seal edge.
- Adjust as needed before reinstalling the door panel.
Troubleshooting
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Vent window won't seal | Check seal orientation; verify seal is fully seated |
| Main glass squeaks or binds | Apply silicone lubricant to glass edge |
| Seal won't stay in channel | Add small amount of adhesive to ends |
| Rivets won't grip | Verify rivet size; use backup washers if metal is thin |
Jan 8, 2026