Difficulty: Moderate | Time: 1–2 hours | Tools Required: See below
What Is a Locking Strip Glass Gasket?
A locking strip gasket (used on windshields, rear windows, and some fixed quarter windows) is a rubber seal with a removable channel that accepts a chrome or rubber locking strip. The locking strip expands the seal to secure the glass in the body opening.
How it works:
- The gasket wraps around the glass
- The assembly seats into the body opening
- The locking strip is inserted into the gasket channel—this pushes the rubber lips outward, locking everything tight
Metro Moulded Parts LS series products include both the gasket and locking strips.
Tools & Materials Needed
- Locking Strip Installation Tool — a specialized tool with a curved hook (highly recommended)
- Complete Installation Kit (GLK-1)
- Soapy water (generous amount)
- Rubber mallet
- Wooden or plastic pry tools (avoid metal on glass)
- Nitrile Gloves (GL-10)
- Masking tape
- Helper (required)
Step-by-Step Installation
Step 1: Remove the Old Locking Strip & Glass
- Locate the locking strip (usually a chrome or black rubber strip in the center channel of the gasket).
- Starting at a corner, carefully pry out the old locking strip using a small flathead screwdriver or trim tool.
- Once the strip is removed, push the glass out from inside the vehicle.
- Remove the old gasket and clean all surfaces.
Step 2: Clean the Body Opening
- Scrape away all old adhesive, rust, and debris from the pinch-weld.
- Treat any rust with a rust converter or primer.
- Wipe clean and let dry.
Critical: Old adhesive residue will prevent proper seating. Take your time here.
Step 3: Install the Gasket onto the Glass
- Work the glass into the inner channel of the new gasket.
- Start at one corner and work around the entire perimeter.
- Use soapy water liberally to help the rubber slide.
- Ensure the gasket sits uniformly—no bunched or stretched areas.
Step 4: Position the Assembly in the Body Opening
- Apply soapy water to the outer gasket lip.
- From outside the vehicle, position the glass/gasket assembly into the opening.
- Press the bottom edge in first, seating it onto the pinch-weld.
- Work around the perimeter, pressing the gasket lip over the body metal.
Tip: Have a helper inside the vehicle use wooden or plastic tools to push the lip over the pinch-weld as you press from outside.
Step 5: Install the Locking Strip
⚠️ This is the critical step that locks the glass in place.
- Start at the bottom center of the gasket.
- Apply generous soapy water to the locking strip channel.
- Insert the end of the locking strip into the channel.
- Using the locking strip tool, hook under the locking strip and pull it into the channel while simultaneously pushing forward.
- Work from bottom center toward each corner, then up each side, finishing at the top center.
Important: Keep the tool at the correct angle (approximately 30–45 degrees). Incorrect angle can kink chrome strips.
Step 6: Final Seating
- Once the locking strip is fully installed, check that the gasket lips have expanded and sealed tightly against both the glass and body.
- Use a rubber mallet with light taps around the perimeter if any areas haven't fully seated.
- Clean all soapy water residue.
Chrome vs. Rubber Locking Strips
| Type | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Chrome | Visible decorative trim; must be installed carefully to avoid kinking; cut ends with tin snips and file smooth |
| Rubber/Vinyl | Black or body-colored; more forgiving; easier installation |
Troubleshooting
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Locking strip kinks during installation | Use more lubricant; check tool angle |
| Glass appears loose | Verify locking strip is fully seated in channel |
| Visible gap at corners | Re-seat gasket; may need to stretch/compress locking strip slightly |
| Water leaks after install | Run finger along entire locking strip to verify no gaps |
What to Expect
New gaskets may feel stiff initially. Allow 48–72 hours before performing a full water test. The rubber will compress and conform to the body contours during this break-in period.