Just wondering??

[sidecar53]

What is the purpose of the black plastic strip on the roof of a Safari where the side panel meets the roof?? Any chance of a water leak here? Any disadvantage to sealing it off at both ends with silicone? Still chasing a leak. Thanks for any and all responses.

[krsowles]

Can't help with what it's for but mine is missing. I have fixed my leaks so it's not neccesary on mine. I'm sure I've opened a can of worms with that! I did get the strips off a junkyard van and will be siliconing them in heavily on mine 'cause they were there originally. So, I vote seal it well! Kelly

[Smiliesafari]

Can't say for sure. I think it may be a cover-up for a seam where the side connects to the roof. Use urethane to seal it. Silicone is good for some things but not everything. Urethane will hold up much better exposed to the weather.

[patgizz]

it's covering the welded seam, easier to make a rubber or trim than to bodywork/fill the whole seam at the factory.