Silicone spray and the hardtop confusion

[SunnyFun]

I've read a few threads on here regarding protecting the paint when you put the hardtop on...and using mylar tape, the original ford tape, open cell weatherstripping, or the QAA stainless steel (which I tried to put on, but didn't do a great job so it may have to come off in the Spring...hopefully 3M adhesive comes off)). In those threads people said to use Ford's Silicone Lubricant or Ford silicone grease on the weatherstripping, yet the Ford manual does not say this. it does say:

"Using a mild detergent, clean the weather-strips on the top before installing it on the vehicle."

and

"Once per year, apply a small amount of silicone lubricant, F5AZ–19553–AA, to the receivers as shown. The lubricant should be sprayed directly into the hole to avoid contaminating the trim parts."

So I am confused on what to do, considering I have no silicone spray or grease. I do have some lithium grease, but that would be for metal on metal.

1) Since the Ford part number mentioned in the manual for Silicone Spray isn't available, and Silicone Sprays are mostly the same (???), can I just get any old silicone lubricating spray at the hardware store or from Amazon to spray into the receivers?

2) Should I also apply some sort of silicone lubricant to the weather seal that rings around the back of the hardtop? What about the front?

3) If #2 is a go, the same spray stuff for #1, or do I need a silicone grease instead?

[merlot4]

In lieu of someone here who is expert, I would say that most silicone spray is probably pretty much the same, just wipe off any over spray. I would not use a silicone grease for question #2. I think I would wipe down the seals, front and rear, with 303. I don't know that silicone spray would hurt, but would make sure the mfr doesn't state not to use it on rubber, or synthetic compounds, and also that something is between the paint and the seal at the rear -which there should be. Others here are very knowledgeable and will correct any errors in my suggestions. 3M adhesive should come off, many use a piece of floss to get emblems off. Any remaining bits can be removed with an appropriate cleaner.

[vinnie]

Spray will work for both applications. Spray on cloth then wipe on the rubber seals - avoids over-spray. I am NOT an expert.

[FEsTbird]

I use silicone grease on the rubber that contacts the back and sides of the car. It contacts the mylar strips that Ford sells. It softens the rubber gasket material and eliminates any screaks. It came in a tube from Ford, the quantity has lasted since the car was new. At one time, the TBN data base had a picture of the tube with the part. However, about 3 years ago, I transferred it to a jar because the tube was cracking. The grease is similar to the grease we used to insure the rubber seal on the bottom of the bell jar sealed to the flat plate of the vacuum system.

[FEsTbird]

Here is the Ford Part Number for the silicone grease: F7AZ-19G208-BA. It may have changed, this is from 2004 post. At that time the cost was $25, but as I said, I am still using it after 14 years.

[wcoates]

DuPont Krytox

[SunnyFun]

Thanks all! I also liked that floss suggestion, merlot4.

[Rondor]

I have used silicone on mine for years. It will double the life of the gasket and does eliminate the squeaks. Only negative is if you ever.have to repaint that area be sure to properly clean where silicone touched, Pool supply stores sell a small bottle of heavy liquid that is a little better than the aerosol or heavy grease type.and cheaper. They sell it for O rings.