X44 drip rail clip

[big gear head]

It looks like someone has welded the gap that this is supposed to cover. I think you are going to do a lot of damage to the paint when you install them.

[R68GTO]

I appreciate all the replies. I'm not sure I understand the original process for these clips. Here's my interpretation: factory added this clip to cover the "joint" in the drip rail from A-pillar to roof. Sealer was applied to the joint area and this clip was snapped across the joint and the excess sealer was smoothed out prior to paint. Finish paint applied when the entire body was done. Is that about right?
Drip rail trim was added to this car in 1978 when it was painted black with gold stripes. I'm assuming this clip was removed when the body was stripped back then so the trim could be installed.
Maybe I should just "let it go" and accept that this detail is not right on the car. I definitely don't want to mess up the existing paint. Still would appreciate a phot if someone can post one up.

Thanks again, Jim

[1967 4K]

I think you exactly right as to the factory process to put these clips on. I spoke to my paint guy Jerry Beasly yesterday about your situation and he said they should have been put on prior to painting. He said what he’d do is install them and then mask off n paint the entire rail.
The paint on your car looks great so your paint guy should be able to fix this for for you. You’ve got a really nice car man and you just made a little boo boo, fix it n drive on.

GL

[CJP_69]

Jim,

These pics are from the passenger side of an x77 car if they uploaded properly.

[R68GTO]

Thanks for those pics! It doesn't look like any sealer is visible on the fore/aft ends of the clip. Aside from potentially cracking the paint on my clip, I'm wondering why I can't just fold the top part of the clip over around the drip rail and call it a day?

[Too Many Projects]

It may be loose, if you fold it over to install. They should be formed enough that once you have the top in place, it will snap on the groove at the bottom. Try warming them to soften the paint and form them to the gutter better before install. I would use a healthy dab of sealer in the center to help hold them in place.