How to remove windshield "cowl" (air intake) on W126?

[86560SEL]

I was going to attempt to remove the cowl on my car today to see it the drains under there are clogged, but I do not even know were to begin. I know the wipers must come off of there first.

There are little plug looking things on the cowl itself, but they act like they do not want to pull off. Do these have to come off? Any guidance (step by step) in helping me remove this panel would be greatly appreciated!

[420 SE]

I've looked through my manual and there is nothing to say how you get it off!!!

Have you tried pouring water down the corners and seeing if it comes out under the car before attempting to pull it apart??

If they are blocked, I would try feedind some thin wire down them (just through the plastic holes) and seeing if that cleaned them out before dismantling.

Just looking at it suggests it would be a major PITA with lots to take off - but perhaps others have done it.

Cheers

Originally Posted by 86560SEL

I was going to attempt to remove the cowl on my car today to see it the drains under there are clogged, but I do not even know were to begin. I know the wipers must come off of there first.

There are little plug looking things on the cowl itself, but they act like they do not want to pull off. Do these have to come off? Any guidance (step by step) in helping me remove this panel would be greatly appreciated!

pull off the wipers, mark their position on the windshield with a marker, remove the rubber seal infront of the plastic cover, once removed you will see some metal clips remove them and the seal at the glass, it should come off fairly easily

[86560SEL]

Thanks! I am off on Tuesday. I will give it a whirl!

[86560SEL]

I had meant to ask- you said "pull off the wipers". Is it as simple as pulling them off? Any tool I should use to easily remove them?

I did not get a chance to do that on Tuesday, so I am going to try to get it this week.

Thanks again.

Originally Posted by 86560SEL

I had meant to ask- you said "pull off the wipers". Is it as simple as pulling them off? Any tool I should use to easily remove them?

I did not get a chance to do that on Tuesday, so I am going to try to get it this week.

Thanks again.

flip up the plastic cap, there is a 13 mm nut and a flat washer, once the nut and washer are off wiggle the wiper to get it off.

[86560SEL]

Hmmm... I do not remember seeing a "cap" there, but I will double check tomorrow.

Thanks!

Shew... tired.....