Leaky Windows

So we’re a few rainfalls into spring now, and I’ve discovered a small swimming pool in the rear compartment. Yum.

I suppose this wasn’t terribly surprising since the side windows are quite literally rejecting their factory weatherstripping.

So, I figured, I should probably get behind the inside trim so I can see where the leak is getting in from when it rains.

Ok well that isn’t it. Looks like I just need to remove a few more screws...

And seatbelts...

And presto! Who thought it was a good idea to make one continuous piece of interior trim? Look at this thing...

But at least I can access literally everything on this side of the car now.

And what did I learn? Actually nothing, other than that yes, the leaks are indeed coming from these windows.

And then I also learned that the weatherstripping is a custom size for this car, created by Ford, and sold only with these windows. And you can’t order any of it anymore.

So, I’m off to scour every inch of the internet for help. But first, this tint...

While I figure out how to fix windows, I’m taking advantage of having easier access to the glass and removing this awfully ugly purple tint.

This is a little heat gun we bought to seal our wedding invitations with wax. 100% thought it would never live to see another use and wanted to throw it out.

It’s so much better without the tint that even my dog wants to be in here.

The interwebs have spoken to me.

Ok, so I read that the leak itself will be solved by replacing the butyl tape that seals the windows in place. The weatherstripping is not the source of the leak (but it still should be replaced nonetheless).

Butyl tape is this black tar-like substance that comes on a roll. I bought some.

And then I removed one of the windows and took a look at what the situation was.

Situation: old and shitty. Also, all the screws were already loose, so I wonder if they just needed to be tightened? Either way, I’m here now so let’s do this thing.

Removing this stuff is NOT FUN. Took about an hour, lots of scraping, and lots of 99% alcohol to remove it all from the window and the body of the car.

And here goes nothing...

My god that glass looks awful inside under regular lights. I’ll deal with that later.

Although, I’m feeling pretty accomplished with this new tape. I mean, it seems like it should fix it...right?

Anyway, now to put the window back in and wait for tomorrow’s thunderstorm to see what’s up.

Update: Good news, it worked!

Okay, so that work wasn’t wasted effort. That leak is gone. But, the windows behind it still leaks, so I had to repeat the process one more time.

And….drum roll…

All leaks gone!