Weatherstrip Compression & Service Procedure

CHECKING WEATHERSTRIP COMPRESSION

Wind noise is often caused by inadequate compression of the door's primary weatherstrip. The following simple tests can be employed to check weatherstrip compression.

Chalk Test

The chalk test can be used to determine if an effective weatherstrip seal is being obtained around doors or liftgates. Using a piece of stick chalk, cover the suspected area of the weatherstrip with a coat of chalk. Close the door firmly, but do not slam it. Open the door and inspect the mating surface of the metal corresponding to the chalked area of the weatherstrip. There should be a chalk impression on the mating surface. If there is a break in the chalk impression, the weatherstrip is not being compressed sufficiently in that area.

Paper Test

Weatherstrip compression around the vent windows and the window frames may be checked by placing a piece of paper between the component being checked and the weatherstrip. With the window or door closed, attempt to pull the paper from between the weatherstrip and the matching area. The paper should pull out-but not easily. There should be a definite drag on the paper as it is withdrawn.
GENERAL SERVICE PROCEDURES

Once a wind noise concern area has been accurately located, the door and window adjustments related to the area should be checked. Weatherstrip compression is completely dependent on good door and window adjustments.

If door or window adjustments are not causing the wind noise concern, use the chalk test or paper test (described earlier in this article) to check weatherstrip compression in the concern area. If compression is low, inspect the weatherstrip and determine if it is damaged, distorted, or misaligned. Service, replace, or align the weatherstrip as required.

If, however, the wind noise concern cannot be serviced by adjusting the doors and windows, or by servicing the weatherstrip, refer to the specific concerns that are outlined in the following paragraphs.