Pagoda SL Group

W113 Pagoda SL Group => Body, interior, paint, chrome, and cosmetic items => Topic started by: 230slhouston on March 09, 2013, 03:40:17

Title: Trim molding removal
Post by: 230slhouston on March 09, 2013, 03:40:17

Hi,
I am removing my trim molding below the doors etc. the screws are rusted. I tried drilling these out they seem to really hardened, broke two drill bits. Any idea how to remove them, special bit?
I am attaching a picture.
Thanks

Title: Re: Trim molding removal
Post by: IXLR8 on March 09, 2013, 04:24:07

Hi --

You may look into removing the interior door panel and getting at the screws from the back side. You might want to soak them in WD40 and then try twisting them with a vise-grip type locking plier.

the other Joe

Title: Re: Trim molding removal
Post by: 66andBlue on March 09, 2013, 05:10:09

I had some success in similar situations using a mini impact driver (cheap at Harborfreight) after soaking the screws for several days with PB-Blaster. But make sure you hit the screw head straight on and not at an angle and clean the slot as much as possible to seat the tip.
Once the Philips cross gets round you can then cut a slot with a small Dremel wheel and try again.

Title: Re: Trim molding removal
Post by: Larry & Norma on March 09, 2013, 10:17:18

I used the Dremel method successfuly also.

Title: Re: Trim molding removal
Post by: 230slhouston on March 09, 2013, 22:05:04

Thanks folks. I used the combination of methods recommended and took out the trim. Took longer then i thought.

Title: Re: Trim molding removal
Post by: IXLR8 on March 10, 2013, 02:08:16

Everything I do on this car takes more time than I thought it would! LOL

I'm sure it's my abilities relative to the car's needs.

the other Joe

Title: Re: Trim molding removal
Post by: w113dude on March 10, 2013, 13:51:29

Quote from: IXLR8 on March 10, 2013, 02:08:16

Everything I do on this car takes more time than I thought it would! LOL

Yes, but think of how much easier it would be on your second Pagoda project. :)

Title: Re: Trim molding removal
Post by: tel76 on March 10, 2013, 14:13:12

I can assure you it does not get easier