protective tape for putting on hard top

[Tim]

I used the all the gasket/tape that gets put down before putting the hard top back on my 2003. New tape costs $150. Any other ideas to protect the finish? What makes this tape so special?

[00mustng]

.....this is my fourth winter....and I don't worry about that procedure.....may- be it's the colour (Inspiration Yellow)....It's not a big issue....minor chaffing but is not any more noticeable than year one....mostly buffs out....Clean and lubricated contact surfaces are key......I would be 103 before any noticable wear would take place, I'm sure!........

[steveb919]

I used a SS strip that I got from WWW.thunderbirdconcepts.com and it solved the problem, also tightened up the top fit. Hope this helps

[Quickdraw]

People I know that have tried the Invinca-shield strips say they are much better, and far cheaper, than the Ford strips.
http://www.invinca-shield.com/n_genk...it=1436-A&ft=1

[George]

Invinca is a great product....infact, for those who have the stainless strips, I would recommend the invinca over them as well. After all they are stainless and they do get minor abrasions on them.
OR, for those who have the Ford strips left over, use them over the stainless until you run out-just a suggestion.

[jetbird]

I have the stainless steel strips for protection of the paint under the hardtop. I'm very satisfied with the strips as protection and they reduce the dreaded top noise. However, when I removed my hardtop for the cool fall "top down" weather, the side strips had moved 1/4 inch (both side strips) The supplier replaced the strips and I haven't had the hardtop on since replacement. Anyone have the problem or suggestions to prevent the movement. Maybe I'm being too picky.