Just in case anyone is researching how to approach replacing their paint protection film (PPF) strips LHS & RHS over cab, here's how I tackled it.
VW REPLACEMENT PARTS:
LHS = 7E7-853-979
RHS = 7E7-853-980
You can of course use an online supply of off the shelf PPF / 'Helicopter tape' you'll just have to cut to the appropriate shape.
1) REMOVAL of old PPF: Hairdryer - gently warm the wear strip along its length, don't spend too much time in one area, keep moving the heat across the strip. At the same time begin to pick at the edge with your fingernail. As the wear strip starts to become warm and maliable (this is the key thing here) gently start to peel off the strip. I recommend NOT pulling it vertically upwards (as you risk pulling paint off) pull the tape back on itself, be gentle!
2) CLEAN UP: Once the old strip has been removed, using Isopropyl alcohol and a rag, I used a cotton rag as any sort of tissue is likely to disintegrate leaving bits everywhere.
Gently remove any left over adhesive from the roof, keep turning the rag over, don't use a dirty area to clean with.
3) PREPARATION: Once all the adhesive has been removed and the area is clean & dry, gently wipe again with a clean rag to confirm no adhesive remains.
3) NEW PPF APPLICATION: Start be laying the new strip on the roof, take time to understand where and how it fits. Using your fingernail or a craft knife, gently flick the edge of the film (glossy side upwards) until the backing strip starts to delaminate from the film. Once possible peel a small amount away and fold it back on itself (50 or 70mm perhaps). Starting from the application point closest to you, position the edge of the tape on the roof. When you're happy thar it is in the correct position gently start to apply, smoothing it forwards, whilst at the same time removing the backing paper. Apply the first part before the roof shape changes.
4) HEAT: Apply heat to the strip as you position it, the tape is fairly stiff when cold, but with a little heat it is possible to move the tape as you apply it to fit the shape of the roof.
5) FINALLY: With your thumbnail (this is what I used) or similar non scratchy flexible item. Gently smooth along the length of the strip while pressing down (you're looking to remove any air bubbles and to ensure that the strip is stuck to the roof effectively.
If both sides are damaged then repeat steps 1 - 5 above on the otherside.
WORTHWHILE ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES:
A) ROOF SEAL: I'd recommend a clean of the pop top roof rubber seal that runs around the entirety of the roof. I gave ours a big 'spring clean' at the same time. Cleaning the seal and the roof surface where it seals. I also lubricated the seal with silicone spray (applied by hand from a rag I used WD40 Silicone spray) allow to air dry for 30 mins or so before closing the roof.
B) ROOF MECHANISM (HINGES & PIVOT POINTS): I took the opportunity to lubricate each hinge point. I did this with the aid of an aerosol can cap and a cotton bud. I used TF2 lubricant spray with Teflon.
I hope this is helpful to others. Long live the Cali!
Thanks
VW REPLACEMENT PARTS:
LHS = 7E7-853-979
RHS = 7E7-853-980
You can of course use an online supply of off the shelf PPF / 'Helicopter tape' you'll just have to cut to the appropriate shape.
1) REMOVAL of old PPF: Hairdryer - gently warm the wear strip along its length, don't spend too much time in one area, keep moving the heat across the strip. At the same time begin to pick at the edge with your fingernail. As the wear strip starts to become warm and maliable (this is the key thing here) gently start to peel off the strip. I recommend NOT pulling it vertically upwards (as you risk pulling paint off) pull the tape back on itself, be gentle!
2) CLEAN UP: Once the old strip has been removed, using Isopropyl alcohol and a rag, I used a cotton rag as any sort of tissue is likely to disintegrate leaving bits everywhere.
Gently remove any left over adhesive from the roof, keep turning the rag over, don't use a dirty area to clean with.
3) PREPARATION: Once all the adhesive has been removed and the area is clean & dry, gently wipe again with a clean rag to confirm no adhesive remains.
3) NEW PPF APPLICATION: Start be laying the new strip on the roof, take time to understand where and how it fits. Using your fingernail or a craft knife, gently flick the edge of the film (glossy side upwards) until the backing strip starts to delaminate from the film. Once possible peel a small amount away and fold it back on itself (50 or 70mm perhaps). Starting from the application point closest to you, position the edge of the tape on the roof. When you're happy thar it is in the correct position gently start to apply, smoothing it forwards, whilst at the same time removing the backing paper. Apply the first part before the roof shape changes.
4) HEAT: Apply heat to the strip as you position it, the tape is fairly stiff when cold, but with a little heat it is possible to move the tape as you apply it to fit the shape of the roof.
5) FINALLY: With your thumbnail (this is what I used) or similar non scratchy flexible item. Gently smooth along the length of the strip while pressing down (you're looking to remove any air bubbles and to ensure that the strip is stuck to the roof effectively.
If both sides are damaged then repeat steps 1 - 5 above on the otherside.
WORTHWHILE ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES:
A) ROOF SEAL: I'd recommend a clean of the pop top roof rubber seal that runs around the entirety of the roof. I gave ours a big 'spring clean' at the same time. Cleaning the seal and the roof surface where it seals. I also lubricated the seal with silicone spray (applied by hand from a rag I used WD40 Silicone spray) allow to air dry for 30 mins or so before closing the roof.
B) ROOF MECHANISM (HINGES & PIVOT POINTS): I took the opportunity to lubricate each hinge point. I did this with the aid of an aerosol can cap and a cotton bud. I used TF2 lubricant spray with Teflon.
I hope this is helpful to others. Long live the Cali!
Thanks
