Abstract: A fixture for testing the resiliency of vehicle bulb-type weatherstripping before and after the weatherstripping has been heat treated includes a base and a holder movably positioned on the base for holding the weatherstripping. A ram is movably disposed on the base opposite the holder for motion between a compressed position, wherein the ram abuts the weatherstripping to compress the weatherstripping, and a release position, wherein the ram is distanced from the weatherstripping. A laser device is positioned for directing laser light onto the weatherstripping as it recovers from a compressed configuration to a relaxed configuration. As the weatherstripping recovers, the laser light is reflected off of the weatherstripping, detected, and a detection voltage is correlated to a distanced moved by the weatherstripping as a function of time. Thereby, a measure of the resiliency and recoverability of the weatherstripping is provided.

Abstract: A seal and fastener isolator system for a thermoplastic valve cover that has the seal made of a silicone rubber and is integrally formed with the fastener isolator so as to allow the entire assembly to be manufactured in one molding operation.

Abstract: A metal rubber gasket includes a central metal lamina sandwiched by two outer elastomer layers. The elastomer is a blend of a butadiene-acrylonitrile rubber and a random terpolymer of ethylene, alkyl acrylate and the mono alkyl ester of a dioic acid. Preferably the butadiene-acrylonitrile rubber is functionally modified with polar groups such as a carboxyl, amine, or hydroxyl groups.