Don't underestimate the flexability afforded with pre-heated rubber and the lubrication properties of products designed for fitting rubber without damaging paint. For several years I used a product called "Isopar" that worked great, that was from the Mopar Parts Dept. There are several others available. Get a free sample from the link below of a similar product.

McLube : Rubber Assembly Lubricants

Don't underestimate the flexability afforded with pre-heated rubber and the lubrication properties of products designed for fitting rubber without damaging paint. For several years I used a product called "Isopar" that worked great, that was from the Mopar Parts Dept. There are several others available. Get a free sample from the link below of a similar product.

McLube : Rubber Assembly Lubricants

Hey geezer! Looked at that site and they only have it in gallons (I really only need it for this one thing. I also searched the net for Isopar, but found nothing related to mopar parts. I can grab that food grade silicon from amazon, but I'm afraid that it might cause damage to the new paint. I just spent an arm and a leg getting it painted, I want to be sure it doesn't damage it.

But, I was also wondering . . . what would be a good way to heat up the rubber? Maybe putting it in the oven at the lowest temp possible? Or using a hair dryer on it for a few minutes?

I am pointing out that there are several products available for the purpose of lubricating and fitting rubber. That particular one I linked to is offering free samples. I wasn't recommending you should buy a gallon. Its been several years since I've used Isopar and referred to it as an example of one I've used and how well it performed. Don't know if you can still get it or if it is another product deemed to be too hazardous for anything but industrial use.

We actually used steam boxes (hot water heat), but carefully using a heat gun, gradually heating the rubber will make it very flexable, easily manipulated and being so dense, rubber holds the heat longer than you would think giving you time to work with it before it cools.

I am pointing out that there are several products available for the purpose of lubricating and fitting rubber. That particular one I linked to is offering free samples. I wasn't recommending you should buy a gallon. Its been several years since I've used Isopar and referred to it as an example of one I've used and how well it performed. Don't know if you can still get it or if it is another product deemed to be too hazardous for anything but industrial use.

We actually used steam boxes (hot water heat), but carefully using a heat gun, gradually heating the rubber will make it very flexable, easily manipulated and being so dense, rubber holds the heat longer than you would think giving you time to work with it before it cools.

Thank you geezer. I'll see what kind of sample they are willing to give. I'll ask if the lubricant has any affect on clear coats/paint.