So, I've decided to re-tint my '05 Mustang due to scratches in my tint and an odd white "stain" that goes along the bottom of the glass. My appointment to have it done is tomorrow, but now that I've started to think about it, I've run into a problem.

The instructions recommend applying it after having your windows tinted or re-tinted. Here in lies my problem: what about the dirt and other particles that are on my wiper channel and/or in the door panel? I'm obviously going to have to wait to roll down the window to put on the moleskin after the tint is applied, but when I do, I'm risking the chance of scratching the brand new tint.

Should I go ahead and apply the moleskin now or is it possible to remove the wiper channel and apply the moleskin with the window up? I know that the chemicals they use might affect the adhesive, but a $30 moleskin kit seems a lot cheaper than a tint job.

 

I would recommend you apply the moleskin now, before you re-tint the windows. Doing it afterward does not make sense because the area with no moleskin will make contact with the tint and scratch it. Don't you think?

 

+1. Why in the world would they recommend you put the moleskin on after tinting?

 

I would install the tint protector felt a couple days before you get the car tinted. That way it has time to adhere correctly to the weather strip.

Those tint shops soak the window in solvents. It will drench the felt.

 

Those tint shops use a solvent to remove all traces of the previous film. For that, I would recommend you get the old tint removed first, then leave.

However, to install the tint, it's just soap and water, so after you leave from the tint removal, install the moleskin, then go back next week and get the tint done.

Or, what will be my method:

Remove the door panels, leave them at home.
Have the tint done (remove and apply, one visit)
Install door panels and the 2008 updated rubber/moleskin piece, and forget the glue issue.

 

Ya, install the tint protector kit a few days before the tint and all should be fine.

 

I just had my windows re-tinted due to scratches. The shop installed the moleskin at the same time but his instructions were to not roll the windows down for 2 days . . to let the adhesive on the moleskin and tint completely dry. Good luck!