Member
I'm replacing the windshield cowl cover on my 99 convertible but have one question before I start. At the top of the cover there is a black, rubbery seal that rests against the windshield. The old seal on my car had dried out, cracked and broke away in bits and pieces, allowing water to drain down into the front of the cabin. Does this require some sort of sealant between the cover and the windshield to keep it water tight? Seems like it might be a good idea to run a thin bead of silicon sealant under here to ensure no water leaks.
Any thoughts? Has anyone replaced it and found it leaked slightly when done if not sealed?
Thanks in advance for your expertise!
1990 535i
1999 323i conv.
2014 320i
1982 Porsche 928
2012 Toyota Camry
2007 Volvo S60
Member
That cowl cover/seal doesn't keep water out of the passenger compartment. You have some other problem.Originally Posted by Ewalk
See ya later,
tony
'98 M3, '92 Dinan3, '05 R1100S BCR, '07 R1200S, Aprilia T
Member
You're right, I didn't choose my words corectly. I believe it drains into an area where there are some electronic conponents, not into the cabin. You're right, if it drained into the cabin, I would have different problems!
1990 535i
1999 323i conv.
2014 320i
1982 Porsche 928
2012 Toyota Camry
2007 Volvo S60
Member
Ok, that makes more sense. If you look at the diagram of the clips and fasteners for the cowl cover you'll see there's a couple that press onto pins and there's also a couple fasteners that clip on to the cover and get pressed into holes. In the diagram there are also these small parts that look like cups or grommets. These need to be pressed into the holes first, then the clip gets pushed into these little cups to make a watertight seal. If you're gonna use sealant anywhere, use it on these grommets. IIRC one of those holes is over or near the ECU. Also, get the two new cowl drains. Even if they're not clogged the rubber gets hardened over time and they won't drain fast enough to keep the ECU dry. I also drilled a small hole in the right side of the firewall, down in the corner below the ECU just for extra water protection. It's a moderately protected area and it drains any water buildup just below the ECU, just in case.
cowl.png
Last edited by tjm3; 04-20-2025 at 01:55 PM.
Member
That's fantastic information! I've purchased new clips and grommets so I'll seal those up so they don't leak. Sounds like you don't recommend running a fine bead of silicon at the base of the windshield under the new cowl?
Thanks for your help!
Last edited by Ewalk; 04-21-2025 at 08:35 AM.
1990 535i
1999 323i conv.
2014 320i
1982 Porsche 928
2012 Toyota Camry
2007 Volvo S60
Member
No sealant needed if all the drains are working. Probably wouldn't hurt anything.
See ya later,
tony
'98 M3, '92 Dinan3, '05 R1100S BCR, '07 R1200S, Aprilia T
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