Dale Coles

[Dale Coles]

Hey experienced detailers/restorers, I need help in breathing new life into some 30+ year old seals around the tail lights in my first gen RX7. Seems I can't find either NOS or aftermarket replacements, so this is the next best thing. Any suggestions?
Thanks in advance.

[Murr1525]

Re: Dale Coles

How bad is it? Any pic?

Probably some Ultimate Protectant/Black. The liquid version.

[Dale Coles]

Re: Dale Coles

Can't get a decent pic with my iphone. About the same as your hands would be after washing parts in gas for a couple of days. I'll get the Ultimate black tomorrow, give it a try and let you know the results.

[Michael Stoops]

Re: Dale Coles

It is important to keep in mind that 30+ year old rubber seals can be degraded beyond repair. As the rubber oxidizes it dries out and breaks down and nothing you can pour out of a bottle will truly "restore" the material to a like new condition. That doesn't mean you can't dramatically improve the appearance, but you may well be in a situation where you need to really stay on top of the material just to keep it looking good. It's not that different in concept from someone applying a paint cleaner and polish or wax to failing clear coat - you might make it look better for a while, but unless you really stay on top of it, it will revert back to that nasty appearance pretty quickly.