I'm trying to plug up the spots where water could be leaking into my car. Since the bottom edges of the doors are pretty rusty, I'm thinking that it is time to replace the...things...on my windows.

Okay, the part I'm looking for is the rubber squeegee part on the outside of the window that presses up against the glass on the bottom edge. If a car thief was trying to break into your car, he would stick the slim jim between this and your window. (I feel like I'm playing $25,000 Pyramid)

Can anyone give me a name for this part? Part numbers for an 81 300td would also be appreciated. Thanks

__________________
1981 300TD, >200K - the "new" car
2000 VW Jetta TDI, >115K - "old" reliable

Rubber window door sills maybe? They are available in kit form somewhere around $100+ ..... Cheap fix can also be black electrical tape applied and wrapped around the edge with the windows down.

Outside Sealing Rail, part #126 725 03 65 front and rear! Did I win the $25,000?

Have replaced that part on two other cars (different part number) and they were dirt cheap (around $10 each). Only trick to installing was that they were a cut to the length you need part, done with a Dremel or similar tool.

Thanks, KCM. Unfortunately, the clock ran out but you've won the set of steak knives and a years supply of Turtle Wax.

Did you buy the stripping in bulk and cut to fit with the Dremel to get it so cheaply? I wasn't clear how the Dremel came into the picture.

Ed

__________________
1981 300TD, >200K - the "new" car
2000 VW Jetta TDI, >115K - "old" reliable

That part will not keep water completely out of the door. That's why there is a plastic liner in the door, to protect the inner door panel and drain hole(s) at the bottom. Usually, if you have rust at the bottom of the door, it is because the drain hole(s) are blocked and water stays in the bottom instead of draining out. Even if you replace the rubber I suggest you ensure that the drain hole(s) are clear.

Regards, Juergen

Don't really need the knives but sure can use the Turtle Wax!

It wasn't in bulk. It appears that Mercedes, or the parts suppliers, supercede the number. The same profile is used on more than one model, just different lengths, so one longer length is sold for all vehicles. It might have been $15, but not more than that. Don't know if the one for yours will be the same way at the same price, but I suspect it will be.

Juergenhbr is right about the drain holes. The seal stops most of the water, but some will still get in. That is the same with many cars. Two problems I've seen with these seals that might warrant replacement is that the felt can fold over, exposing the metal clips that attach it, and thus scratch the window. The second is that dirt can get trapped in the felt and cause a screeching noise or even scratching.

Hope this helps.