Thread: Sunroof. Any downside to sealing it off?

Look at that. The swear filter works a treat

If you're not interested in a new seal eg: Search tasc-auto car products to buy
Then use Sikaflex, not normal silicone.

I would recommend winding it out, giving it a good old clean, sikaflex and close while the sikaflex is still wet. Don't get it wet for at least 24 - 48 hrs after this, and if you can avoid driving it, do this also as the vibrations may compromise a good seal.

Oh, and reseal your gutters whle you're at it...

Pete

I haven't had any experience with defender sunroofs specifically, but have had a couple on Rangies. I assume there is not much difference in the basic design. They are not intended to have a water-tight seal where the sunroof closes in it''s surround, instead the water that gets in is supposed to drain away via hoses that run down the a and b pillars on both sides. If you're getting water gushing in like that, it sounds like the drain tubes are blocked and the tray that contains the mechanism is filling up with water. Find where the drain tubes finish- in the rangies it is in the rear wheel arches above the tyre and behind the front inner guards in front of the front doors- make sure the ends aren't blocked with mud, poke a bit of wire into them and make sure they're clear. Harder to get to the top end of the drain tubes, you can blow them out with compressed air but you may blow a gallon of muddy water into your roof lining. That might overload the swear filter.

Before sealing it off why don't you take it apart, replace any seals, clean it up put it all back back in and adjust whatever is adjustable? If it was water tight when new it can be water tight again!

I had a camper once and the previous owner had silicone shut both the sunroofs!.. Really ****es me of when people do lazy **** like that. Take it apart and service it properly. How hard can it be?

I'd be checking the drains before sealing it.

My old (Discovery) sunroof leaked really badly in the lightest rain. Once I cleaned the drainpipes it was fine and no water got in even with the heaviest downpours.

No drains in these units.

Will most likely be the outer seal.
Replace & all should be good.

Sent from my iPad using Forum Runner

I can't find any any drains, I'll wait till I get a tribe around to help me remove the rack/tent. Then I'll inspect the seals.
In the mean time I've rolled up an old towel and wedged it between the rack and the sunroof, it seems to have closed the sunroof down more securely which may just do the job. Temporarily of course.

Thanks for all responses,
Kenley

I thought it was supposed to leak...