Chrome trim removal instructions

[Casey]

Can somebody tell me how to remove the chrome trim at the base of the windows on the outside of the doors, and the A-pillar piece between the front door and windshield that a rubber seal sits beneath?

[jbrasile]

Hi Casey,

Just left you a voice mail but basically this is how it goes:

1) Outer chrome molding removal - with the door panel removed, use a screw driver sitting on top of a wooden spatula or similar to pry up the clips that hold the molding and outer wipe as an assembly. Be careful so the ends of the molding don't scratch the paint on the outside of the door and also watch that the tip of the screw driver does not scratch the inside paint. Start at one end and work your way towards the middle. Alternatively you can also remove the molding first by using a wide wooden or plastic spatula in between the wipe and  molding, just be super careful because if you use too much force you can bend the molding! Watch the front door mirrors as well as the rear door frame on both front and rear doors so you don't nick the paint, especially when re-installing!!!

2) A-pillar molding - remove the painted panel from the A-pillar molding using a spatula, you will see some 8mm and one 7mm bolt at the bottom, undo those and you should be able to pull the moldling towards the front of the car, watch it so you don't loose the little metal connector that links the A-pillar molding to the roof rail.  You will have to remove those A-pillar pieces when it's time to install the new windshield  gasket so it is probably a good idea to wait until then.

For everyone doing ANY type of work on ANY car yourself I strongly recommend buying one of those panel removal tool sets sold on e-bay, JC Whitney or Griots. They are absolutely essential and you can work without the fear of scratching or damaging anything.

Here is one of them available on e-bay for for just $25.00.

http://cgi.ebay.com/Complete-Car-Dash-Door-Audio-Trim-Panel-Removal-Tool-/290548521231?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item43a60a990f

Tks,

Joe