At Steele, we’re well known in the automotive restoration industry for our high quality products, especially our glass gaskets. Glass installers love us for a reason! But sealing up your ride doesn’t stop there. A critical part of keeping your vehicle quiet, dry, and protected is the Glass Run Channel, and we’re the experts in that area too.
What is the Purpose of Run Channel?
Run channels serve several important functions:
- Prevent window rattles
- Provide a smooth surface for glass movement
- Guide and protect the glass
- Give window openings a clean, finished look
If you want a quiet ride without leaks, making sure your run channel is in good condition is a must.
Types of Run Channel
The right run channel for your project depends on the type and age of your vehicle. Steele offers both OEM style replacement parts, which are pre-shaped and cut to size, as well as high quality universal parts that work for a wide range of makes and models.
You can search our website by year/make/model/style to find the run channel specific to your vehicle. For custom applications, check out the run channel offerings in our Street Rod line.
We also offer sample packs so you can test‑fit different options before making a purchase. It’s a simple way to ensure you get the perfect fit for your restoration project.
Flexible Run Channel
- Material: Flexible steel, cloth-covered, and mohair-lined
- Design: Bends to fit the shape of the window frame for a precise fit
- Options: Rubber-backed, black bead, chrome bead, and various channel sizes and lengths
Flexible run channel is typically used on:
- Door glass windows
- Quarter glass windows
- Tailgate glass windows
Rigid Run Channel
- Material: Steel and mohair-lined
- Design: Rigid construction for vertical installations, guiding window glass up and down inside the door
- Variations:
- Continuous channel from the top of the vent window into the door
- Two-piece channel split at the beltline – top piece for when the window is fully up, and bottom piece for when the window is rolled down
- Options: Chrome bead or plain finish, available in different sizes and lengths
Rigid run channel is typically used on:
- Outer channel of vent window division post
Rubber Run Channel
Rubber run channels became the industry standard in the 1960s and remain in use on brand new vehicles today.
- Material: Electrostatic flocked rubber
- Design: Easily bends to fit the shape of the window frame
- Options: Many profiles available, in several different sizes and lengths
Rubber run channel is typically used on:
- Door glass windows
- Outer channel of vent window division post
- Quarter glass windows
- Tailgate glass windows
Installation Tips
Typically, run channel will be held in by pressure, so most installations consist of simply pressing it into the frame around the window or the back side of the vent window frame. However, some run channel weatherstrips do require screws or rivets to secure them in place, so always pay close attention to product descriptions and installation instructions.
If you’ve got a run channel project coming up soon, check out these helpful videos below!
Do you have another rubber or weatherstripping part that you’d like to know a little bit more about? Check out our Simple Guide to Weatherstripping Terms.
At Steele, we’re more than just high-quality products, we’re your trusted resource for completing your weatherstripping projects with confidence.
Whether you’re working on a classic car or truck, street rod, RV, or boat, our expert team is here to help. If you have questions about weatherstripping or need product guidance, we’re just a call or click away.
📞 Call us at 800-650-4482
📧 Send us an email
💬 Chat with us live on our website
Need installation help?
Check out our How-To video series on YouTube for step-by-step guidance and tips.
Stay connected!
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for updates, inspiration, and more.
Steele Rubber Products 