The grey plastic panel that runs across the bottom of the windshield (under the wipers) is broken on the passenger side (if I lift off the screw cover - the plastic under the screw is broken so the screw no longer holds the panel down). A standard socket does not fit the nut - but it looks like you might have to remove the screw from the other side (inside the hood ? ) . Did anyone take this part off and any idea if it should come off from top or underneath and what tool to use ? I was going to put a bigger washer in there to hold it - but if that doesn't work I see sun coast has the part here for $125

http://www.suncoastparts.com/product..._Code=996exttr

Thanks in advance ....

 

The bigger problem is that panel is black, if it's that faded just replace it.

 

I don't recall the fastener types but it removes from above, there aren't any hidden bolts. You also have to unbolt the wiper arms, and there are a couple of torx fasteners along the forward center edge under the hood. I'm on 996 #5, every single one has received new paint on the cowl panel and wiper arms. $20 worth of semi-gloss black plastic friendly paint makes a huge difference.

 

You do know that you can raise the hood, right?

 

PS- "Forever Black" does a great job of taking weather faded black plastic from grey to black. I used it on my cowl ~7 years ago and it held up well.

 

I just paint mine black and it maintains the "new" look forever. Did the same thing on a few other cars which looked the same for over 8 years.

 

I replaced mine last year. You will need to take the plugs out of the wiper arms to access the nuts then you will need a torx wrench to remove the screws. Disconnect the wiper washer hoses... Pretty easy DIY.

 

This. Rustoleum makes uv resistant plastic paint.

 

Repainting the wiper arms and black plastic trim is a surefire way to make any older car look significantly better. It's a subtle thing, but noticeable.

 

well - I went to wallyworld and found they now carry M1 0W40 in 5 quart jugs - got some deep sockets while I was there and with 10mm deep socket could easily remove the nut holding the cowl .. plastic is totally shot - so time to order a new one - shipping from Florida to CA is extremely high - I need to search for some alternative ....

 

who did you order from? Suncoast ? you also have Sonnen Porsche, Sunset and Gaudin that are also very good with prices, not to mention lower shipping to Cali.

 

 

^^^ ironic that the guy cares about how his trim looks but doesn't care enough to do a better masking job to prevent overspray.

 

I did some checking this morning - Sonnen had a much better price than anyone - and shipping is local for me ....so even with Tax I am way ahead of the game ...

 

I thought the same thing... good diy, but the effort was a fail!