Method and device for applying adhesive-backed weatherstrip

A device for applying adhesive-backed weatherstrip to a substrate surface, where the weatherstrip comprises a weatherstrip body backed by a layer of adhesive that is protected by a release liner, said device comprising a release liner removal tool having a stripper portion comprising:

• a weatherstrip spacer having a leading edge, an angled trailing edge, a central axis and a thickness profile that is operatively adapted to separate the weatherstrip adhesive from the substrate surface while allowing the weatherstrip body to contact the substrate surface, when said stripper portion is positioned between the weatherstrip and the substrate surface;
• and
• a release liner guide surface,
• wherein said angled trailing edge has a longitudinal axis defining an obtuse angle with the central axis of said weatherstrip spacer, and a transverse radius of curvature operatively adapted to allow a trailing length of the release liner to be removed from the layer of adhesive, bent-backwards-over said trailing edge and onto at least a portion of said release liner guide surface, after said weatherstrip spacer is positioned behind a corresponding portion of the attached release liner of the weatherstrip.