Ok, her goes. In response to NJ Steve and Unreal about NOS GM cowl induction seals slanting inwards. like this picture from Steves post
For the record, and this discussion, all referance is to a "GM" seal that is correctly installed and....GLUED IN PLACE...
I do not know if the same problem exists with other seals like Soft Seal. Anyway they look alot different and are harder.
I have never been able to figure out why some original cowl seals seem to look so good. Most likley the new GM seals we are getting now are a little different from assembly seals.
The following are a few steps I took on several cars I messed with, including mine.
I found it necessary to "Train" the seal. If it is a new project, you can do this to your seal and let it sit untill Baby is ready to drive or show. Or do this before putting her up for the year.
The square edge of that GM seal is ment to lock around the outside edge of the metal base.
That is the part the sticks out like a sore thumb when they are installed "Up side down", and usually there will be a Caution Fan Sticker nearby
The picture below is the underside of the base.
Make sure the seal is gluded in place well, all 360* of it. If you used rattle can bombs
you may have trouble with the trim cement eating up your paint. I like the black trim addhesive.
Let the glue set for a few days if it is a new seal.
Next start pulling the top of the seal to the outer edge and fold it over on itself. Like in the picture. Grab enough of the seal when pulling on it, I tore one once by pinching just the lip.
Next, clamp the seal so it does not pop back off, be carefull if you use tape, use low tack stuff or wipe the good stuff across your pants.
A helper might work too. Good way to get the little lady involved
Good luck with that.
Work, pull and fold the seal like this all the way around. and check it over to make sure it has not started to slip back on you. You should now be able to remove the clamp or tape. The seal should stay folded over.
This what it should look like from the top.
Now you can leave it dwell like this for X amount of time. May need to repeat this a few times.
Anyone else have any other tricks pleas chime in.
Mike