How to remove trunk script? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Jeremy5848 · #1 07-29-2006, 12:40 AM

I'm gradually cleaning and detailing my new-to-me 300DT and need to remove the "300D" and "TURBODIESEL" script from the trunk lid so I can rub out the paint. I was happy to find that the star was attached with a nut and came off easily, but it looks like the script is attached with some tiny clips that I can't even see, much less remove. What to do?

EliotW · #2 07-29-2006, 02:19 AM

The later W124 tail emblems were just glued on. A bit of fishing line is all you need to remove them.

JCE · #3 07-29-2006, 02:47 PM

Many of the MB emblems are glued on - the process for removing is described for many models in the archives through a search. IF yours is one of the glued on versions, fishing line or dental tape lubricated with a detailing spray like Mequirs Quick Detailer will let you remove it easily - a little WD40 helps clean up any glue left behind. Some people needed a hair dryer on the inside of the trunk behind the badges to soften the glue first.

If you plan on re-attaching them, either buy new badges from Fastlane, or be prepareed to do a fair search on the types of adhesives to use, as the original glue is destroyed by the removal process.

Jeremy5848 · #4 07-29-2006, 06:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jeremy5848

... the script is attached with some tiny clips that I can't even see, much less remove. What to do?

The script is NOT glued on. The script has timy pins cast into it that go through the lid and are held on the inside by some kind of plastic cap. I'n trying to figure out how to remove them without damaging anything.

dieseldiehard · #5 07-29-2006, 07:03 PM

The 123 cars didn't use glued on legends.

That's a lot of work for a detail job. But about the only to get a nice finish!

I don't recall seeing plastic caps, I am familiar with the flat clip that goes on over the post, its pushed down when installing, but if you try to remove them they are almost impossible to get off and will cut into the metal posts.

I used a set of diagonal cutters to tear them off, literally break the clip in pieces if necessary. I managed to get one off whole but it was pried such that the two retainers were bent out and hardly worked afterwards. You could buy new ones at the dealer.

MTI · #6 07-29-2006, 07:16 PM

In the late 80's, MB made the switch to glued on trunklid designations. My 85 W201 had the plastic lugs, but later model W201 are just glued on.

JCE · #7 07-29-2006, 11:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JCE

the process for removing is described for many models in the archives through a search. IF yours is one of the glued on versions, ...

That is why I suggested a search - it wasn't clear what year model you were talking about (123, 124, etc), and there were 300 designations in each model. My 87 300 has glue on emblems. Another poster also assumed you were talking about a 124 as well, so model or year does help with answers.

Unlike the emblems, the trunk star on my 87 is not held on with glue, but with the 3 plastic caps over some tabs. If you have plastic tabs/buttons over your emblems on the inside of the trunk, you might investigate this thread.

redassag00 · #8 08-01-2006, 04:37 PM

Dental floss

JamesDean · #9 08-03-2006, 11:44 AM

whats the best way to remove left over residue? The badges were removed a long time ago and the 190E and 2.6 are still visible due to left over residue....any ideas?

kris

TX76513 · #10 08-03-2006, 12:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JamesDean

whats the best way to remove left over residue? The badges were removed a long time ago and the 190E and 2.6 are still visible due to left over residue....any ideas?

kris

If it is residue some mineral spirits will take it off safely. More common is sun fading where the paint was protected by the badge.

JamesDean · #11 08-03-2006, 02:24 PM

im pretty sure its residue because its black...ill check into the mineral spirits

sLoweredK300e · #12 08-07-2006, 04:00 PM

I have a 1991 300e. I just pulled them off with my fingers, then cleaned the glue off with Goof Off. Not a big deal at all.

Bob G · #13 09-05-2006, 01:34 AM

If memory serves me correct the script you are tryin to remove is held in place by tiny white plastic press inplugs the hold the pins on the back of the script.

to remove take a tine plastic bondo applicater from your local auto parts store and carefully see if you can create a gap from front to rear wedgeing outward toward you in small increments to loosen the pins from the plastic holders. Some WD40 may help with this . It is a slow process but it works. youwill need some new white plastic pop in holders before putting the script back on.
I used to do this all the time. but that was ages ago.

Bob Geco
Auto Detailing since 1970