Boot Seal

[Cava]

I am about to replace the boot seal but does anyone know where to get the black sealant stuff that is used by the factory on the original - or is it needed?

[ian332isport]

I am about to replace the boot seal but does anyone know where to get the black sealant stuff that is used by the factory on the original - or is it needed?

Black sealant ?

Never seen any sealant on an E30 boot seal before. Certainly don't have any on mine.

Ian.

[Martinaston]

It's just a kind of black putty (can't remember the name) you can get it at a body shop in small tubs.
It's the same stuff used for the top seam between the front wing and scuttle plate.
You can use that (and get in a right mess) or just use bathroom mastic to seal the corners nearest the back window, when you park the car faceing downhill in the rain it gets under the rubber because of the join in the body panels.

[MONSPORT42]

As Iain said there no sealant for an original fitting. As you say, water can lay there in certain circumstances but definitely shouldn't seap through any panels unless you already have a hole(s) in which case I'd be looking at treating that. That are doeas need to be kept clean though otherwise you can get an accumulation of wet muck which will accelerate rust damage.

[Cava]

Cheers Guys, the original stuff just seemed to be on the corners nearest the rear window. I'll just clean this area up and fit the new seal.

[toptints]

just put a seal on mine and it came with the black putty packed into the new seal

[Cava]

Just had a look in the bag but no sealant in with mine - bit disapointing as it is a genuine part.

[Simon]

I've never seen this black putty stuff either, I've had quite a few E30's now, and replaced the boot seals on a few, and nver seen it, I wouldn't worry, I'd worry if there was some though! The new seals are so tight it shouldn't be needed!

[Bob_S]

i think he means already in the seal itself where it pushes onto the body

[Cava]

Ok, thanks guys, just fitting the new seal now.

[Martinaston]

While you have the trim off check above the lock on the inside for rust.
Normally starts to go there.

[Cava]

Looks ok fortunately but I did have a spot starting on the passenger side above the seal which I have sorted. I had to replace the plastic trim as it was cracked so I have taken the opportunity to strip and check the boot.

[Martinaston]

Don't take the back lights out unless you have new seals, i've never managed to get them back in without leaking if you use the same seals.

[Cava]

Thanks for that, looking at the originals they do seem a bit flat. Oh well another item to add to the list!