How To Remove Window Trim (with pics)

[Blake442]

Here is my guide to window trim removal, for your G-body windshield, rear glass, or wagon 1/4 glass.

For starters, get yourself a window trim removal tool, it should have a flat hook like this:



There are better ones with hooks on both sides, which are handy for certain spots.

It is a good idea to put some masking tape on the backside of the trim tool to keep it from marking up your glass. I wasn't too worried about the ole Malibu, so I didn't bother...

Gently slide the tool behind the trim, underneath the plastic liner if it is still there.



Starting at the bottom, move the trim tool along until you feel the clip. Get the hook behind the clip, and gently pry the clip away from the trim. You'll feel the trim release from the clips.

Here's what is happening behind the trim:





Work slowly and make sure you release all the clips before you pull on the trim, otherwise you will easily damage it. It is made of anodized aluminum, and is rather fragile.

Start at the bottom of each side, doing the sides first, then the piece across the top of the windshield.

Don't get mad if some of the clips break, it's old brittle plastic, and likely to happen.

 

[85 Cutlass Brougham]

Stickied.

I will also add that E-Bay sometimes has good deals on boxes of these clips. The parts store is expensive and will sell you 2-5 clips for $5.

 

[Longroof79]

Nice write up, Blake.
Thanks for posting that.

Jack

 

[O. D. Showtime]

Very nice Blake!

 

[Blake442]

Glad I could help... 8)

After a few years and a few dozen cars worth of straightening and repairing mostly stainless trim, but some aluminum in there too...
If I can help somebody avoid damaging it, I will!

 

[bigblockmadness]

nice info blake

 

[SLICK79WGN]

sweet thanks for the info

 

[mr evil]

Thanks again Blake. Got the trim off no problem and only 2 broken clips and one missing altogether. Just need to pin point the leak now. It was not clearly apparent when the trim was removed. I'm concentrating on the top of the windshield because the leak is worst when the car just sits as opposed to while driving.

Another Q - I noticed that many of the clips on my car are kind of embedded in the window sealant. Is it safe to carefully cut some of this away to remove the clips? It's the only way I can see to get the broken ones off and new ones in.

I'll post some pics of progress...should I add them here or into my original thread?

 

[Blake442]

Yes, it is fine if you need to cut away some of the sealant to get the broken clips out, just be careful you don't scratch paint that the moulding won't hide!

 

[mr evil]

So, I finally got this done and wanted to add a couple things.
It really was pretty easy getting the trim off, thanks again Blake.
This is the tool I used-it worked but I think the 'ears' on this one are a bit short. I also think one could make a tool in the garage for this.

I only broke 2 clips during removal, but I was kind of sweating having to find new ones. Turns out my local parts store (Lordco for you Canadians) has a whole rack of fasteners by a Montreal company called Geno. They have every fastener you could probably think of, lol. Pack of 6 for $3.23.

I DID find some rot in the channel, that was the reason for the leaks. I will be doing this again :evil: