As a followup to a question which I previously raiised on this and a couple other forums, I aasked my service manager about the best way to treat the upper window gasket on my Lexus 2002 LS430 which becomes rough between routine cleanups. I'd been using Z-16 (Zaino's Vinyl and Rubber Protectant) for this. He recommended that I clean it until it was smooth, thrn use a silicon spray lubricant (in my garage, that's CRC). Anyone ever use it for that purpose and/or for other window or door, trunk, etc trim??? I've used it on cars as a window channel lubricant, but never as on a gaket. Will it also act as a protectant?? Comments, questions, snide remarks.

 

I was recommended this but have yet to try it out. I've heard good reviews on it so far

http://www.pakshak.com/1z-rubber-pro...ege-100ml.html

 

Silicone fluids such as the 350 centipoise fluid in common silicone lubricant sprays are inert to rubber and other elastomers. That is, they do not harm them nor do they help them in terms of "protecting" them from UV or aging. Depending upon the propellant in the aerosol, it may do a bit of damage prior to evaporating (silicone lubricants are typically 75% or so propellant, the propellant evaporates rather quickly after being sprayed onto the surface being treated). Whatever you do, do NOT use any "protectant" that contains petroleum distillates or any other petroleum solvent as these definitely do damage rubber and many elstomeric materials.