Seal or Polish first

[JIMandPJ]

I've been cleaning off the silicone and hot glue from many seams as well as the windows (thanks to PO). Eventually I'd like to polish up the little lady but I've got lots of repairs yet to go, vents to remove/replace, etc. Question is should I go ahead and polish those areas where I remove the goop or clean up seams before I seal them up. Does the polishing abrade the sealant or mess it up some how??

[goransons]

I hate silicone!!! I would polish any area you plan to seal, basically like cutting in for painting. That way you have the best surface for your sealer with no grime to compromise the bond.

[wasagachris]

Yes it does mess up the sealant and your polish job. Don't ask me how I know. Polish the areas first then seal up.

[JIMandPJ]

Thanks guys - polish it is

[InsideOut]

We scrape out the old sealer, polish the seams then reseal them. Our reasoning is in post #472 of our "It's a Girl!!!" restoration thread.

Shari