Rubber Trim Insert

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Mar 12, 2021 | 01:32 AM

MrGGermany

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Rubber Trim Insert

Hey all,
Has anyone gotten any good, lasting results reconditioning the rubber inserts in the upper molding on our trucks? What did you use?
I appreciate any tips.

Mar 12, 2021 | 08:57 AM

440 sixpack

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Not a lot you can do with plastic or rubber except replace it or refinish it. you could use SEM color coat and I'm sure it would look good for a long time if you keep it stored inside. if you leave it outside it may not last as long I've never tried that.

Mar 12, 2021 | 10:53 AM

MrGGermany

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Quote:

Originally Posted by 440 sixpack

So, paint is my best option? I was hoping there was maybe an oil based (or any) product that would make it look blacker and hold for a summer or so.

Mar 12, 2021 | 11:29 AM

Mark8man

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I've used this but there are many similar products on the market that might offer a same or similar result. How bad a condition is your in? If just discolored this should work but may need reapplied every few weeks depending how much sun it gets.

Amazon

Mar 12, 2021 | 12:48 PM

HoustonDave

Fleet Mechanic

Joined: Sep 2014

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From: NE Texas

The look of faded plastic can be improved with a heat gun (maybe a hair dryer if you have one that gets really hot). Never tried that on rubber... think I would try a test section first. Be careful not to apply too much heat.

Mar 12, 2021 | 03:00 PM

MrGGermany

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Quote:

Originally Posted by Mark8man

It's not horrible. Just a little faded. I got fresh paint last fall and want the chrome and rubber to look a little better as well. Thanks for the link.... I'll see if I can get that here.

Mar 12, 2021 | 03:04 PM

MrGGermany

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Quote:

Originally Posted by HoustonDave

I DO have a good one, but I'm wary of using it on there. On my daily driver sure, but on The Beast I don't want to screw it up!

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Mar 12, 2021 | 11:43 PM

MrGGermany

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Quote:

Originally Posted by scottscott

The insert is basically plastic, so use plastic polish. If it is really grimy, use polishing compound, followed by plastic polish.

This will darken the color & make the insert really slick.

Thanks for the idea.