Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications General Mods Door handle seal removal?

Hello everyone. I am very new to this site and through the mistakes of other innocent newbies, learned to master the search option before opening my big mouth. I still was not able to find a solution to the wax/polish buildup on all of my door handle seals. I clean them from time to time, but they turn white after a few days. The previous owner apparently was real sloppy with polishing around rubber areas and I am now stuck with their present condition. I would love to remove them, but common sense is telling me that they are there for a reason. A friend told me that it served no true purpose and would not let water leak in. Would the gap created loosen the door handle? Please advise. All of you appear to know more about these cars than their makers.

If the buildup is just wax try using an old toothbrush to get the crud out. Depending on what year your car is you might consider replacing the seals altogether. Its really not too hard of a job. Involves taking off the interior door panels and removing a couple bolts to get the door handle loose. I can give you some in depth details if you decide to replace them but theres no need unless it would be useful so just let me know.

As for your friends advice, ignore it, the seals most definately server a purpose and should not be left out. Not only do they seal the door handles from moisture they create a pad between the moving door handle parts and the main body of the door. If it wasn't there the paint would eventually rub off in places and then rust would probably set in. And thats no good.

Hey, the toothbrush made all the difference. Before, a lighter film of wax was always visible after an initial cleaning. Now all is gone and looks brand new with a once over. I just assumed that once wax set in on rubber, there was no permanent removal of it. Also, my mercury is a '99, so that could have been a factor. Thanks SQplus, I?m off to kick my friend in the butt now.