How do I remove B pillars to re-glue the vinyl covering?
 

1989 300 SE. I want to remove the B pillar covers so I can re-glue the vinyl where it's coming loose around the upper seat belt slide. I've tried prying on it near the top but I can't seem to get it to pop off. I can get about a 1/2" gap but it doesn't release and I'm afraid to pry any harder for fear I'll break something.

I tried a search, so know lots of members have done this, but couldn't find an answer to how hard I can pry and where I should be appling pressure without hurting anything.

If anyone could provide instruction I'd be grateful. Also, do I need to buy new clips to replace any that might break? If so which ones. Thanks.

I'd like to know how this is done too, as well as any info on suitable replacement material since my vinyl is shot.

Thanks!

Try GAHH, http://www.gahh.com/index.php, they sell matching MBtek by the yard.

http://www.veteranco.com/ is the same stuff for about half the price, maybe not quite the selection.

At the bottom of the B-pillar cover there is a plastic cover held on by 2 Phillips screws. Remove this plastic piece. Pull the B-pillar cover out and down and the tip will unhook and come off. It will be necessary to remove the bolt attaching the seat belt to the floor so you can unthread the seat belt from the cover.

Paul

Thank you, sir....

Do any precautions need to be taken regarding the seat belt tensioner pyros?

I never have when performing this operation but it is never a bad idea to make sure the key is turned off and removed from the ignition switch, the ground cable is removed from the battery and taped aside and the red pyrotechnic plug is disconnected (in that order). Mark

OK, I removed the screws and expected the cover to come right off, but it's still stuck tight. I tried a little gentle prying with a plastic putty knife but they didn't budge. Also, the PO broke a small piece out of one edge from apparently trying the same thing. What's holding them on?

I'll remove one today to see what I missed when explaining how to do it. All I can remember at the time is the 2 screws and pushing the cover up and it unlatches. I'll get back as soon as I can.
Paul

I did one of mine several years ago; don't remember any tricks were needed, just it was more work than I expected, so I have procrastinated in doing the other side. I used the original vinyl material, but it has some thin foam padding underneath which crumbles with age. I replaced mine with a couple layers of batting which is used for blankets and which I found at Wal-Mart. Later I found the thin white foam intended for underlayment for the laminate flooring at Lowe's, and I think this would be better, maybe last longer, etc.
Good luck!

Sorry it took me so long to get back to you.
Step 1 - Remove the bolt holding the seat belt to the floor just below the cover.
Step 2 - Remove the door sills in the front and rear doors. Use a long thin screw driver slipped under the sill at the outside edge and pry it off.
Step 3 - Remove the wind lace in the area of the cover you are removing.
Step 4 - Remove the two screws and pull the plastic piece up and away.
Step 5 - Pull down on the B-Pillow cover and it should come out easily.

The seat belt tensioners won't be a problem as long as you don't remove them. They are protected back in the B-pillar

Paul