Are all the chromed hard top protection strips the same?

[MATBird]

Re: Are all the chromed hard top protection strips the same?

Gordon: When you get them, lay them on the sail panel to see how they will look. It also gives you the opportunity to double check where they need to be to cover the existng scuff marks - Then just peel and stick!

[marjo1966]

Re: Are all the chromed hard top protection strips the same?

Hey all-
I actually purchased the clear protectors from the Dealership, I like the invisible coverage and like to keep things simple-
just passing it on!
MJ

[sauernote]

Re: Are all the chromed hard top protection strips the same?

I'm thinking about using the prostripe strips this time around in order to get a better seal and stop the creaking noises. I've tried the foam and it always squeezes out from under the right side of the top after awhile and looks terrible.
I already have the clear strips that were sold as aftermarket items (the name escapes me at the moment), and they are still doing the job after 6 years. I'd hate to have to remove them.
So, here are my questions--1) has anyone put the prostripe strips OVER the clear strips? 2) do the prostripes eventually work their way out of position like the foam?
Thanks for any help.
Ralph

[crmpuf]

Re: Are all the chromed hard top protection strips the same?

I also have been considering this installation however I believe chrome or stainless steel should be reserved for engine components only but thats just a personal thing does any of the companies offer these in color
Black for me
thanks Gary

[MATBird]

Re: Are all the chromed hard top protection strips the same?

Yes Gary, you can get the Prostripe in Black

[Daktari]

Re: Are all the chromed hard top protection strips the same?

'I believe chrome or stainless steel should be reserved for engine components only'.

Hi there,

That statement there just seemed a little strange since that the wheels are chromed, the windshield surround is shiny chrome effect and all the decals are chromed plastic. I agree that it could be easy to reach the 'overkill' limit with the chrome add-ons but to me, the protection strips are playing a practical function and rather than try and hide it I figured this is one chrome add-on that would look pretty good.

Each to their own though. Gordon.

[sauernote]

Re: Are all the chromed hard top protection strips the same?

So... do the prostripes work their way out of position eventually, and can they go over the existing clear strips?

Also, where is a good place to buy the prostripes?
Thanks,
Ralph

[MATBird]

Re: Are all the chromed hard top protection strips the same?

Ralph:
Here's a note posted a long time ago by Ray the herd:
"For those of you who don't want to have to put on a permanent solution, such as the QAA strips, Invinca-Shield, Ford strips, etc., the best and least expensive solution to the hardtop problem is a product called "Stick On Trimbrite Molding". You can get it in chrome or black. The chrome is T-4005, and I think the black is T-4003. It's about the same width as the QAA molding, has a lip that fits on the edge of the deck, is thicker than the QAA strips or the invisible or Ford strips, and it sticks on with 3-M adhesive. For about $9 you can get enough to go around the deck. It not only prevents scuffing/scratches, but because of its extra thickness, it eliminates noise, rattles, wind and water leaks, and movement of the top. I put it on a few days before I put on the hardtop for the winter, and I remove it when I take off the hardtop in the spring. The adhesive is strong enough to keep the molding in place all winter, yet it's easy to take off in the spring. All you have to do is heat the molding a little bit with a hair dryer, pull it off, clean any left over 3-M residue with alcohol, and then re-wax the area. With the hardtop on, you can't see the molding at all. Some leave the molding on year around, but I prefer the look of the car without anything on the deck. That's why I like this over any of the other solutions. For even more protection and an even tighter fit, you can apply Ace Hardware 1/2" open cell foam weather stripping over the molding.

(Another product you can use instead of Trimbrite is Prostripe Molding - M8522005 for the chrome and M852002 for the black. The cost is around $22.00 per 20' roll. It's a little better quality than the Trimbrite molding. If you like the look of something around the deck year around, I'd suggest using the Prostripe). You can get the Trimbrite and Prostripe molding at any auto parts store, and the weather stripping at any hardware store. Try it and then thank member Chris, as he's the one who discovered this solution."

Other info I found by searching TBN:
All sorts of colors here:
http://www.smartshoppersinc.com/body...-molding1.html

OR, more infor on chrome plastic strips:
"The Prostripe and Trimbrite molding can be purchased at just about any auto parts store....Pep Boys, Autozone, etc. The Ace weatherstripping can be purchased at any Ace Hardware store. The Protstripe/Trimbrite molding has a lip that fits perfectly on the edge of the deck opening. All you have to do is use some alcohol to remove the wax on the car where the molding is applied, remove the tape that covers the 3-M adhesive, and press it on."

[sauernote]

Re: Are all the chromed hard top protection strips the same?

Thank you, Matbird. I'm going to try the black prostripe this year. I'll leave the Invinca-Shield in place, clean it up real good with alcohol, and let the prostripe sit for a few days before installing the hardtop.
Ralph

[crmpuf]

Re: Are all the chromed hard top protection strips the same?

'I believe chrome or stainless steel should be reserved for engine components only'.

Hi there,

That statement there just seemed a little strange since that the wheels are chromed, the windshield surround is shiny chrome effect and all the decals are chromed plastic. I agree that it could be easy to reach the 'overkill' limit with the chrome add-ons but to me, the protection strips are playing a practical function and rather than try and hide it I figured this is one chrome add-on that would look pretty good.

Each to their own though. Gordon.

If it were up to me the windshield surround would be black and the rims too nothing strange about that its what I would prefer not that theres anything wrong with chrome or bling its just not for me I also feel that two doors are one too many

[gladiator99]

Re: Are all the chromed hard top protection strips the same?

Thanks George!
You have also included the trimbrite moulding and these mouldings are just about identical. I have had the prostripe moulding installed for about 3 years now and they still look great. They have not moved or squeezed out of place. Of course I have not installed my hardtop for 2 years, so the moulding looks real good. I may put on a new piece next spring. I was thinking, what will my car look like with the hardtop on? It has been a while but I did have the hardtop on with the prostripe moulding in place and there were no squeeks or rattles. You can also run the moulding along the top of the door edge just below the windows to carry the stripe up to the mirrors. It looks pretty good also.
Take care!
Jim

[sauernote]

Re: Are all the chromed hard top protection strips the same?

I'm having a hard time finding the prostripe mouldings. I've been to two Kragen's and an AutoZone--nothing except pinstriping. Any suggestions?
Thanks,
Ralph

[MATBird]

Re: Are all the chromed hard top protection strips the same?

Ralph:
If you cannot find it locally, you can buy it on line at www.autobodydepot.net or call them at 858-536-7960.
It's 5/8" "Wheel Well Chrome" Part number, PRO M852005

[sauernote]

Re: Are all the chromed hard top protection strips the same?

Thanks, MATbird. I ordered the black today. Do you think I should put it on over the Invinca Shield?

[MATBird]

Re: Are all the chromed hard top protection strips the same?

It certainly wouldn't do any harm. It's individual choice on that one, from a visual persective..