I still need to remove the rocker trim clips on my w123 for repainting. These hold the trim to the lowest part of the doors and fender & quarter panel. It seems that there is not enough room inside the door to drive through the pins to release the clips (or is there?). Has anyone done this by drilling out the clip pins?

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Drilling the pins out is one way. I have also used a pair of diagonal pliers to pry the entire clip away from the body. Drilling or using diagonal,pliers requires the replacement of the clips. If I remember correctly they are about 75 cents each and available from the forum sponsor.

It goes without saying that the clips have to be replaced, I already have all 34 of them (new). The early w123 cars use all nylon clips - no screws or metal clips in the doors. I'll pass on the idea of trying to force them out with pliers, especially with 34 of the little buggers and the possibility of damaging the surface behind them, but I appreciate your comments.

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1 day later> the drill method works very well. A 3/16 bit matches the diameter of the pin. Mark the bit at 13mm from the tip, drill in short bursts to avoid going into the opposite side of the door or damaging the under-coating of the fender. After the pin is drilled out, carefully pull off the clip with vice-grips. It took less than 45 minutes to remove all 34 clips with no damage.

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Don't Chrome them; polish them