Which glue should I use to reattach window strips in passenger cars?

Classic Toy Trains Forum
1

I have a few old Williams passenger cars that have had the window strips fall off inside the car–the glue let go.

What type of glue should I use to reattach the window strips? I don’t think I should use CA (super glue) as that would probably fog up the window strips to the point of ruining their appearance.

I was thinking of using Elmer’s glue (white glue) but I’m not sure it’s strong enough.

Would “canopy glue” that is used for model airplane kits be the best choice?

Any advice would be appreciated.

2

If you’ve got it I’d go with the canopy glue–its billed as drying clear, nonfogging etc. Elmers might be a second choice.

Scotie

3

I think it would only require a small dab of glue at each end of a strip. For plastic and metal my choice would be plumbers goop, a silicone adhesive.

4

Formula 560 canopy glue, with Aileen’s Original Tacky Glue as a good second choice. Both dry clear.

Pete

5

Testor’s liquid cement (looks like a small bottle of fingernail polish). Capillary action helps seal the glazing around the window frames.

6

Have you actually used that to reattach window strips? There’s too much could go wrong, IMO, including possible damage to the passenger silhouettes, gluing your fingers to the plastic, and making it very difficult to remove the strips should that become necessary. Formula 560 and Aileens are water based, much less opportunity for disaster.

Pete

7

Yep. I’ve been using Testor’s liquid cement for 3 decades on all my window glazing applications. You can even use it to undo mistakes.

8

If you’re talkin’ about this stuff -

http://www.testors.com/product/136633/3502X/_/Liquid_Cement_for_Plastic

  • I’ll stick (oops) with canopy glue, thank you.

Pete

9

Clear silicone sealer. Doesn’t melt or fog and is removable

10

I’ve used Walther’s Goo for the application you describe. You only need a small drop, and none of my window strips have ever let go after using it.

11

I had to replace window strips on a set of sheet metal passenger cars last week. I used masking tape to hold the windows in place; a 1/4" strip above and below the glazing works fine. It doesn’t damage the finish either.