The best way to prevent damage (scratches) is to clean all surfaces real good before using.   Other than scratches, the plastic usually does not hurt the paint.   I prefer a foam seal, but even this will cause minor paint scratches if the seal or the paint has dust on them.   The only source (the maker) is Don Reisinger who has Tbirds and makes these for Tbirds.    I have two email addresses, don't know which one he uses now

dreisinger@earthlink.net   or   donreis@earthlink.net


54 Victoria 312;  48 Ford Conv 302, 56 Bird 312
Forever Ford
Midland Park, NJ

That's the info I'm looking for. Paint is base coat clear coat. Plan is to loosen top and remove the strip when not actually driving the car. Should be ok. Thanks.

I am referring to the protective plastic strip.

I leave mine on the car from October till April , then I take the top assembly off the car and put it in the attic. Been doing it that way for 11 years and have had no problems.  The only way I could see you having an issue is if the car is kept in an extremely  damp environment . Keep the area waxed and you should be fine.

I feel your pain, I get the same marks in the lacquer paint job. It would be less likely if it was an epoxy paint, much harder. The lacquer never really completely hardens.

Got one from Larrys T Bird Parts. Haven't got car on the road yet so haven't used it. Instructions say not to leave it in place long term. May damage paint? Whole idea is not to damage paint. Anyone have any experience with these? Hardtop weather strip will eventually do some damage to the paint. Have new paint job and want to preserve it as best I can. In the past I always unlatched the top and lifted it off the deck and put a piece of vacuum hose between the top clamps to keep the weight off the paint. Helped but eventually get a grove in the paint form the weather strip.