3m tape for lower trim

[Newtynewt]

Just looking for some expert, perhaps even empirical knowledge.PO closed up all holes. I have original trim in good shape and definitely want it installed. So... Has anyone ever had lasting success installing lower trim for a blazer using 3M tape or other adhesive. I’ve asked locally and received mixed opinion. Would love to hear from some of the very knowledgeable otn here.
As always, thanks so very much.
Marc
Posted via Mobile Device

[HO455]

The key on this is surface preparation. Both the truck's surface and the back side of the trim. This means clean, oil and silicone free. You may have to prep the back side of the trim to give it some teeth for the adhesive to hold on to. I would also consult with SEM and or 3M's web site or a local body shop for leads on commercial products. Do a search as I remember a thread about trim on a step side that was glued down several years ago.

[tidmack]

I agree with this advice and have been amazed by what has stayed put with 3M tape. I've had great luck by stripping wax off the vehicle, then cleaning the area with alcohol. Finally, I've used an adhesion promoter before sticking the item to the paint. On the trim, side, I would also prep as HO455 described.

Jeff

Originally Posted by HO455

The key on this is surface preparation. Both the truck's surface and the back side of the trim. This means clean, oil and silicone free. You may have to prep the back side of the trim to give it some teeth for the adhesive to hold on to. I would also consult with SEM and or 3M's web site or a local body shop for leads on commercial products. Do a search as I remember a thread about trim on a step side that was glued down several years ago.

[tidmack]

I just did some checking on the various 3M adhesion promoters and it appears the active ingredient in all is isopropyl alcohol. I swear when I used to install items at an accessory shop, there was an adhesion promoter we used AFTER wiping the area with alcohol. Anyone else able to comment on this?

Jeff

[bntmotorcycles]

I glue all my moldings on with black silicone. Works great on new paint. Just wipe everything down with wax/grease remover. Fit molding to the best looking fit. Stripe guide tape down the side for perfect alignment. Dab big dobbs of glue on back of molding. Keep away from the edges so it doesn't creep out the sides. Use 2 1/2" masking tape to hold in place. Make sure it's nice and warm when your doing all this. I use a wide shop broom or something like that to apply pressure to the lower molding while drying. Prop it up against truck with old tire or something. Let dry 24 hours.

I know this all sounds crazy but I haven't used molding clips for 30 years. Just make sure all the surfaces are clean and wax free. They won't fall off. I even do this on moldings around tailamps on pick ups.

Be sure to clean up all boo boo's of glue ASAP with wax remover and clean cloth.

Good luck. Take your time and the molding will look way better than with clips.

[Newtynewt]

Thanks all. I love this forum. I believe whichever method I choose the common denominator and best chance of suucess depends on the prep work, as with most things in general. “The will to win is nothing without the will to prepare to win”.
Posted via Mobile Device