Removing rear window chrome trim strip (Pics) *Resolved*
 

Anyone know how to remove the rear window's chrome trim strip from a W124 (1993 300E)? The first pic shows the chrome strip (with the rust I need to repair).

There is a self-tapping screw on either side of the strip at the lowest point (hidden behind the boot lid and under a rubber trim which I've removed, revealing lots of dust!) - see the second pic. I've removed these but can't figure out how to proceed from there.

There is also a cover piece at the top edge where the left trim and the right trim meet in the centre of the rear window. I have slid this piece out of the way, but that hasn't helped much either. Anyone got some advice please?

It pulls/lifts out of the seal. I've started at the bottom and using a plastic trim tool pry it out as I go. Take extra car to not stress the corner as you remove.

One caveat, I have not consulted the magic manual on this process, just did it to save the trim from a car I was scrapping.

Thanks Jeff. I don't have a "plastic trim tool" and, to be honest, I haven't even a clue what one looks like :confused: I tried lifting/pulling the trim with a hardish piece of plastic, but it won't budge. I presume the tool needs to have a levering action? I've also checked my Haynes manual and the MB CD, but there's no info on removing the trim. What's so special about the trim tool and where would I be able to get one? Anyone got a pic of the tool please?

Try using silicone spray on it to lubricate the trip.

The tools I use I bought for trim and window gasket work, basically thick plastic levers. If you have a set of sturdy bike-tire removal tools you could try prying with them.

Lubricating sounds like a good idea. Your enemy is the rubber being so hard from age (and possibly cold), and trying to peel that T-molding/trim out without kinking it, especially at the corner, and not chipping the glass edge.

"Plastic Trim Tool"
 

TrevorC,

Home Depot Paint Department

DarkGray/Black Plastic Spatula like "FLEXIBLE" putty blades $.88 Ea.

Three or Four different sizes (Widths)

Hmm, mine more closely resemble the PARK bike-tire tools.

Thanks to both Jeff and Warren's advice, I've managed to remove the chrome trim. I "manufactured" a plastic trim tool from two old toothbrushes and used Q20 (a general purpose lubricant) in a spray can and this did the trick. (I'm out of stock of silicone spray, but it should work just as well). It was still quite a job, but it's now done.

The trim actually hooks around the edge of the glass with a "C" shape and the trick is to compress the rubber strip which is between the trim and the body, in order to remove the trim. Thanks again guys.

Trevor

Use soapy water...........BUT....if you think getting it off was hard, wait till you try to put it back on. GOOD LUCK 'cause it is almost impossible!

Yes, soapy water should do the trick as well.

I have to have the glass completely removed by the auto glass guys before repairing the rust. I'm buying new rubber strips (old ones are a bit hard in places) and I'll get the auto glass company to first clip the rubber strips and the chrome trim onto the edge of the glass before bonding it to the body - so it all goes back together with the glass. It looks like this is what the factory did. Hopefully they won't break the glass when taking it out! :)

I need to do the same thing and I think I'll call the glass company. I'd like to avoid having to buy another window if possible, and their chances of removing it and then reinstalling it are probably 80 or 90% better than mine are.

Hi Paul, Is your reason for removing the glass also the dreaded RUST?