Rocker panel trim removal

[buick7332]

Can anyone know the proper way to remove the rocker panel trim on my 82 grand prix? It is 2 inches wide and runs from the front fender to the rear quater panel. There are no screws holding it on. I'm afraid of damaging the piece or breaking the clips. Is there a specific tool i need to buy? Any help would be appreciated, the car is going to the body shop for a paint job Monday morning and I want to get all the trim off the car.

 

[pagrunt]

There should be "fingers" on the top of the retaining clips that when new would flex when pressing downward on the trim. As with the age of the originals still on our cars, there will likely be some breaking. Might want to get some extras just in case. The doors may have metal clips with studs & nuts one the ends, access on the inside flange.

 

[pontiacgp]

There should be "fingers" on the top of the retaining clips that when new would flex when pressing downward on the trim. As with the age of the originals still on our cars, there will likely be some breaking. Might want to get some extras just in case. The doors may have metal clips with studs & nuts one the ends, access on the inside flange.

you are correct but the problem I had was the fingers were brittle after all those years and many of the fingers broke.

 

[buick7332]

you are correct but the problem I had was the fingers were brittle after all those years and many of the fingers broke.

If I push straight down on the trim and pull the bottom towards me will it pop off? Im terrified of bending the trim. My buick A body trim sits on round clips and is screwed from the bottom.

 

[pagrunt]

No gorilla force, but use firm pressure.

 

[buick7332]

I'm going out to give it a try. Thanks for the help.

 

[buick7332]

Success! Got 1 side off and only broke 1 clip. The back side of the trim is packed with dirt but I don't see any rust on the rocker. thanks for the help. will post some pictures after the paint job.