Anyone have any ideas on how to clean up the water channels (rim along exterior roof)? Mine have lost a bit or their black coating. I'd imagine it would be a job to source and install a replacement but wasn't sure if there was some new coating I could apply?
I've thought about cleaning them up and repainting them before I knew they were removable and replaceable (they are expensive). I am sure there is a paint like material that could be sourced to re-spray on them and make them look good again but overall they are just cosmetic and not sure what other function they would serve. After taking mine off I kind of like the subtle utilitarian look it gives and seems like the rain chanels open up more without them and would stay free of debri better.
I didn't have any paint damage on removal. It just clips in the chanel like a c-clip shape. If you peal it from the rear end of the vehicle and lift the lower edge up it comes off pretty easily. There is a cap on the rear of the trim piece that can be very brittle and brake off. If there is any paint damage I would guess it is more likely from years of dead leaves and debri holding moisture in there or acting as an abrasive.
