Expert: Michael Kakuk - 10/26/2009

Question
Hi Mike

I'm trying to figure out how to remove a piece of body side molding from the rear quarter panel of my 1983 Mercedes. It's part of a strip located midway up the side of the body and extending from the front quarter panel, through the door and ending on the rear quarter panel.  The molding has been damaged but the metal panel under the molding is not damaged.  I'm going to replace the molding piece with a new one.

How can I get it off without damaging the metal panel?

Answer
MIKE.....SOUNDS LIKE YOU ARE DESCRIBING A DRIP RAIL MOLDING.
I CAN'T GIVE YOU ANY INFO ON THE REMOVAL....I CAN'T AFFORD A MERCEDES SO I TRY NOT TO DEAL WITH THEM...!!!! KIDDING OF COURSE....I CAN GIVE YOU A GUESS...THAT MOLDING MAY BE RIVETED ON AND REMOVAL WOULD REQUIRE DRILLING OUT THE RIVETS AND INSTALLING NEW ONES.

ALL KIDDING ASIDE, THE BEST SUGGESTION IS TO CONTACT YOUR MERCEDES DEALER AND ASK WHO THEY RECOMMEND FOR COLLISION WORK.CALL OR STOP BY AND ASK THE SHOP...THE REMOVAL PROCESS.

GOOD LUCK AND LET ME KNOW WHEN YOU FIND OUT.