{"id":4361,"date":"2025-08-13T11:36:43","date_gmt":"2025-08-13T18:36:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.accordionboot.com\/shop\/?p=4361"},"modified":"2025-09-02T10:04:16","modified_gmt":"2025-09-02T17:04:16","slug":"accordion-boot-flat-surface-install","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.accordionboot.com\/shop\/accordion-boot-flat-surface-install\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Modify an Accordion Boot for Flat Surface Mounting (Step-by-Step Guide)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

When installing an accordion boot, most designs rely on an embedded metal clip to grip a flange around the mounting opening. However, some vehicles or camper shells have a flat surface with no flange, making the factory clip unsuitable. This guide explains how to modify the original accordion boot by removing the embedded metal clip, replacing it with a flat vinyl insert, and securing it with an aluminum retainer. The result is a secure, weather-tight installation on flat surfaces. Note: Any modifications to the original boot will void the manufacturer\u2019s warranty and return policy.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Step-by-Step Instructions<\/h2>\n\n\n

Time Needed :<\/strong> <\/span>2 hours 00 minutes<\/p>

This how-to shows how to remove the factory embedded metal clip from an accordion boot, replace it with a flat vinyl insert, and fasten the boot to a flat surface using an aluminum retainer with self-drilling screws (or pop rivets). The result is a secure, weather-tight installation when no flange is present around the opening.

Before proceeding, the width of the mounting surface must be at minimum 1.5″ wide. If it is smaller than this measurement the boot will fit securely.<\/p>

  1. Identify the embedded metal clip <\/h3>

    \"EndEnd view of the boot\u2014note the factory metal clip in the channel.<\/p><\/li>

  2. Begin removing the clip <\/h3>

    \"UsingUse a flathead screwdriver to gently separate rubber from the clip to expose it.<\/p><\/li>

  3. Pull the clip out completely <\/h3>

    \"ShowWork along the length as the clip becomes accessible. Continue pulling the clip out evenly to avoid tearing the rubber. Completely remove the metal clip<\/p><\/li>

  4. Verify the channel is clear <\/h3>

    \"EndEnd view shows an empty channel ready for the vinyl insert.<\/p><\/li>

  5. Prepare the vinyl insert <\/h3>

    \"SideCut vinyl insert to the same length as the boot side you\u2019re mounting.<\/p><\/li>

  6. Install the vinyl insert into the channel <\/h3>

    \"ShowsPress the vinyl strip evenly into the channel; avoid twisting.<\/p><\/li>

  7. Inspect the fit <\/h3>

    \"VinylMake sure the insert is completely mount in the rubber channel to insure a flush, continuous fit.<\/p><\/li>

  8. Tack the insert with adhesive (optional but helpful) <\/h3>

    \"UsingApply small drops of cyanoacrylate<\/strong> along the insert to keep it from shifting during install.<\/p><\/li>

  9. End view of the installed insert in the boot <\/h3>

    \"InspectingInspect the to make sure the insert is fully mounted by look at the end of the boot<\/p><\/li>

  10. Prepare the aluminum retainer <\/h3>

    \"AluminumUse 1\/16″ \u00d7 3\/4″ aluminum flat stock cut to length.<\/p><\/li>

  11. Mark 1\/8″ holes on aluminum flat bar <\/h3>

    \"MeasuringLay out holes for even clamping pressure. start 1\/2″ from end mark every 3″<\/p><\/li>

  12. Drill the aluminum retainer <\/h3>

    \"DrillingDrill straight holes where marked and deburr edges if needed.<\/p><\/li>

  13. Apply polyurethane sealant to the mounting surface <\/h3>

    \"LayingLay a continuous bead to create a weather-tight seal.<\/p><\/li>

  14. Position the boot over the sealant <\/h3>

    \"PlacingSet the boot in place; avoid smearing the bead.<\/p><\/li>

  15. Align retainer over the larger side of the boot rubber and drill pilot holes <\/h3>

    \"PlacingDrill pilots through the retainer and into the mounting surface.<\/p><\/li>

  16. Fasten with self-drilling screws (or rivets) <\/h3>

    \"UsingRecommended: #8 \u00d7 5\/8″ pan head Phillips self-drilling screws. Install screws at each hole for uniform clamping<\/p><\/li>

  17. Joining multiple retainer sections <\/h3>

    \"ThisButt joints between retainer pieces\u2014keep gaps minimal and screws close to the joint.<\/p><\/li>

  18. Inspect the final fit <\/h3>

    \"CloseEnd view: consistent compression against the surface and sealant.<\/p><\/li><\/ol><\/div>

    Tools<\/h5>