Greetings,

I'm finally ready to replace the window/roof belt trim that starts from the side mirrors A pillars to the top of the front window past the B pillars and goes around the rear window.

I have the parts and rivets. Yes, for those who didn't know, these are riveted into the body with 10 on each side.

Now, my dilemma. How do you remove the rivets without having the tail end of the rivet clip off inside the body of the car and getting lodged in the rear fender (yes, this is an issue that some on rennlist has experienced)??? Can't find an answer. Also, even if I were to have a body shop remove them, I'm not sure how they would succeed, when there are only so many methods to remove the rivets.

Best.

 

You have to remove the inner rear quarter trim panels and access the fender cavity. Block off the back and front of the fender cavity with some foam (or tape it off) so the rivets won't go down a hole.

Drill out a rivet and use a vacuum to remove the head from the fender cavity. Do one at a time so you know you got them all.

 

Thanks for the info. Not looking forward to it. LOL

 

I'm hoping to have this done soon as well. Keep us posted on your success. I took to the dealership and they mentioned either magnets or vacuum to catch the rivets.

But if you succeed, please let me know. I might hire you to do mine! =)

 

I get the "how", but may I ask "why" you are doing this job?

 

'm sure you are asking the OP but for me mine has rotted out from the PO presumably leaving it out in the Florida sun. For me, t is mostly cosmetic but would love for it to be in much better shape.

 

Additionally, if the rivets don't get removed, body motion over time will cause protrusions in the fender wherever the rivets land.

 

This is true and I've seen photos, thus my concerns. Trust me, you don't want those protrusions on your fender - it'll bother you for sure.

 

Same, So. Cal sun rots it out. It's beginning to bother me every time I wash my car. LOL.