rubber trim on fairings

how difficult a time am i going to have putting this rubber trim back on the fairing after i pull it off to paint?


im talking the rubber ring around the headlight opening...


next question: what exactly is this 'cushion' material (gasket) that goes between the windshield and the fairing? is it something thats readily available for replacement? i want to replace this stuff. it looks like its been compressed for sometime and i want a good looking good performing seal...

 

Depends on how hardened up it is. I'd start lifting it somewhere maybe on the bottom out of view to see how easy or hard it will come up without stretching it. You may want to warm it up a bit with a hair dryer to make it more supple. When you put it back on you may want to add a little black rtv to hold it on.

As for the windscreen, I had gotten some custom rubber window molding for one I had a few years ago from buddy that has a commercial glass company which was close. Fortunately, he ride as well and was able to locate me some.

 

As far as the wind shield cushion goes...I have used Armstrong insulating tape before. It is available at any refrig/hvac supply and possibly even Home Depot or Lowes. (Closed cell medium density foam with adhesive back, available in various thicknesses.)

 

How important is the foam strip under the edge of the windscreen? Does it help keep the plexiglass from stress-cracking? Can it be eliminated?

 

The foam strip is important. Keeps it from cracking yes, also the windshield will vibrate against the fairing without it.

 

Here is the trim removed. Notice the rubber "knobs" that are used to attach it to the fairing. There are a couple of those "knobs" missing on this one.