Forum Discussion

Bumpyroad's avatar
Bumpyroad
Explorer
Apr 06, 2020

leaking sunroof

my sunroof on my tow vehicle is not draining properly and collects water in the "drain pan"? when it rains. which then leaks into the vehicle.
checking on the internet shows that this is a very common problem and to unblock the drain tubes have obtained two sizes of wire and a bore scope in hopes of fixing it.
assuming I am doomed to failure, and not wanting to spend megabucks on a "feature" that I don't use/want am considering taping the seams/joints as a last resort.
I bought a small roll of a sealing tape, externabond IIRC but that was a very thick piece of material suitable for a flat surface and I stuck a piece onto a piece of plexiglass and days later could just peel it off. I am in search of a UV resistant, waterproof tape, about 2 inches wide that can seal up the glass/rubber/metal joint. hopefully about the thickness, etc., of black electricians tape.
my choices appear to be flex tape, eternabond, gorilla waterproof tape, and dicor.
I am looking for any advice/comments/ experiences using these materials.
thanks,
bumpy
  • Common problem... on GM's they use a duckbill fitting where the water comes out the firewall and into the engine compartment. They collect sand and pollen then no draining. :(

    You can cut the end off a little bit and then it will drain, too big of an opening invites bugs. MOST systems consist of hard and soft lines joined somewhere in the drain...air pressurealmost always blows them apart, usually way up under the dash where you can't reach...Murphy's Law.
  • Try an air compressor to blow out the drain tubes. It would be best if you know where they drain to and blow up through them.
  • Try weed eater line to clean the drain tubes. Less chance of damaging the tubes.
  • jdc1's avatar
    jdc1
    Explorer II
    In the roofing section of Home Depot/Lowes you will find a roll of tape that will seal almost anything. It has a silver backing.
  • I eternabonded the Mountaineer's sunroof about 5 years ago, and the GX's sunroof 2 years ago. Problem solved.