Vannin' Home Forums General Discussion Paint and Bodywork Weatherstrip For Fiberglass Fender Flares?

Van is finally painted, and so are the flares! The holes are already in place, and all I need to do is mount them up.. However my OCD strikes again.

Should I put some sort of weatherstrip between the body and the flares? I was originally thinking that some sort of rubber extrusion in the shape of a "T" might work best as it would pinch between the 2 body and flare and cover over the top of each by a little bit.. But I couldn't find anything that looked suitable. Also worried that it might trap dirt and moisture more than it would keep it out.

Also considering just some thin weatherstrip foam tape with adhesive on one side. I would attach that to the flare before installing and while it wouldn't cover the top, it might fill and seal any irregularities between the surfaces and look more finished.

Or should I just leave them bare and mount them and call it a day?

Check out older VW bugs and other older American cars, they used a plastic? fender welting between the body and fender, maybe something along those lines? Think foam or softer rubber would hold dirt/water.

Second on the VW fender bead.

I' ve never used anything on any of mine.

I've never used any type of cushion on any of mine.
And any that I've ever removed, repainted or reworked did leave "rub" marks on the body due to slight movement. Van's that are enjoyed will get dirty.
My thought is you've got nothing to lose by trying and, if you use the right sort of cushion, you can always remove it later after you see how well it works.
My2%