How to Install Fixed Quarter Window Seals

Difficulty: Moderate | Time: 1–2 hours per window | Tools Required: See below

What Is a Fixed Quarter Window Seal?

Fixed quarter window seals are rubber gaskets used on stationary (non-operable) glass commonly found on:

• 2-door sedans and hardtops
• Station wagons
• Some pickup trucks (rear cab glass)

These seals wrap around the glass and fit into a metal body channel, typically installed using the rope-in method (similar to windshield installation).

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Tools & Materials Needed

• Complete Installation Kit (GLK-1) — includes everything you need
• Nylon cord or rope (¼" diameter, at least 8 feet)
• Soapy water
• Rubber mallet
• Nitrile Gloves (GL-10)
• Clean cloths
• Helper (strongly recommended)

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Step-by-Step Installation

Step 1: Remove the Old Seal & Glass

1. From inside the vehicle, carefully push the glass and old seal outward.
2. Have a helper on the outside ready to catch the glass.
3. Remove all old rubber from the body channel. Clean thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the New Seal

1. Install the new seal onto the glass first (not into the body).
2. Work the glass into the inner lip of the seal, starting at one corner and moving around the perimeter.
3. Ensure the seal sits uniformly with no twisted or bunched areas.

Pro Tip: Apply soapy water to the seal lip to help the glass slide in more easily.

Step 3: Install the Rope

1. Lay the cord into the outer channel groove of the seal (the part that will grip the body pinch-weld).
2. Start at the bottom center of the glass.
3. Work around the entire perimeter, leaving both cord ends overlapping at the bottom center (inside the vehicle).

Step 4: Position the Glass Assembly

1. From outside the vehicle, position the glass/seal assembly into the body opening.
2. Press the bottom edge of the seal into the body channel first.
3. Have a helper inside begin slowly pulling the rope while you apply gentle inward pressure on the glass.

Step 5: Pull the Rope (The "Rope-In" Method)

1. As the inside helper pulls the cord, the outer seal lip will roll over the body pinch-weld and lock into place.
2. Work from center to corners on each side.
3. Use a rubber mallet with light taps if needed to seat corners.

Step 6: Final Check

1. Inspect the seal from both inside and outside for complete seating.
2. Check that no seal lip is folded under or trapped.
3. Clean any excess lubricant.

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Adhesive Requirements

Fixed quarter window seals generally do not require adhesive when installed correctly using the rope method. The seal locks mechanically around the body pinch-weld.

However, if your application has weathered body metal or a loose fit, apply small beads of 3M Black Weatherstrip Adhesive (GL-11) to problem spots.

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Troubleshooting

Issue	Solution
Seal won't seat at corners	Re-position; use rubber mallet with light pressure
Gap between seal and body	Ensure rope was positioned correctly; re-install
Water leaks	Verify seal lip is fully seated; check for body rust