T-molding reshape

gleegum

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Has anyone tried reshaping T-molding that looks like this? It's rock-hard. I suppose it can be done with heat?
Maybe removing the T-molding and submerging it in hot water could work? I just thought I'd ask here first—maybe someone has already tried it.
This is a Vanguard cab with the offset groove.
Thanks.
IMG_20250211_115558868.jpg
 
A bucket of heated sand will also help. Around 150 degrees F. Hot water soaks can also work. However, once plastic takes a set, it's hard to work out.

Why wouldn't you just source new T-moulding?
 
I have used a heat gun as a last resort and it worked the one time I tried. I didn't love the idea because I was sure it would melt. But I was super careful and had a wet rag to cool it quickly.

Heat it, push it into the slot with a screwdriver or hammer handle. Try to not get a hot spot that'll stretch more than the other areas.
 
I get this happening on restored games with brand new T-Molding. It is nice and flush at installation, but after like 6 months or so it seems to shrink and pull away at the inside corner bends. My cabinets are in my garage but it is climate controlled with a mini split unit and they are not taking on moisture and expanding. It's more like the molding is shrinking back. I've had to pull it off and re-apply it. I'm gonna try heat now instead. Super annoying, you think you are "done" with a game and then have more unexpected work.

Arcadeshop used to have the offset T-Molding for Centuri cabinets like your Vanguard but hasn't had it again in years. If you wanted to replace with new you would have to fill and recut the slot and use non-offset molding.
 
A bucket of heated sand will also help. Around 150 degrees F. Hot water soaks can also work. However, once plastic takes a set, it's hard to work out.

Why wouldn't you just source new T-moulding?
I haven't ruled out sourcing a new one, but I'd prefer to keep it original, even with the small dents.

I'll try the heat gun approach first.
Thanks!
 
As others have said here, the heat-gun method is best but you also need to be careful that you don't burn or put too much heat to where it becomes too soft that you are unable to manipulate it.

I've done this before to a Japanese Subroc cockpit. What i found with old t-molding is that it takes a little bit to heat up one single section. What happens tho is that it once it hits a certain temperature, the t-molding abruptly becomes soft in an instant. If you aren't ready to set that section of t-molding in place right at that second, you could run into problems.
 
The original t molding shrinks slightly over many years.. You can try the heat gun, but it will just pull away again.. as its shrunk slightly over 40 years.. just my 2 cents.. ;)
 
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