ES330 Exterior Molding Removal
#1
Driver
Thread Starter
ES330 Exterior Molding Removal
Hi, does anybody know how to remove the chrome/stainless? exterior molding around the windows? I want to paint the molding black and prefer to do this off the car, it's a pita to mask everything for paint. I google rsearched and could not find any info and I don't want to "just" start tugging on it until it comes off/bends/breaks. or who sells cheap replacement molding for the ES? i tried Ebay and found nothing but, I may have been wording it wrong, I attached a pic and the chrome around the windows is what I want to paint black. Thanks in advance.
#2
Lexus Fanatic
There is a purpose built tool aka SST for removing drip rail molding (I've seen them mentioned in Toyota service manuals) but the odds of removing all the trim without damage is low. They make poly sheets specifically to cover an entire vehicle for painting purposes.
#3
Driver
Thread Starter
Ah, drip rail molding! Thanks, I'll look that up. I have the big rolls of paper & drop cloths to cover the car up but, it's the molding edge taping that is a pita. I figured it was easier to remove the molding but, if it is difficult as it seems to be then, masking is the better option. I'll recheck Ebay for a used set that I could paint and install whenever I have time. Thanks
#4
Lexus Fanatic
Masking all that off is a pain for sure, if you want a cleaner line use Frog Tape. A body expert could probably remove the trim without damage but unless you know how you will probably bend it or worse. The belt line molding (just above the doors) can be even harder to remove.
#6
Driver
Thread Starter
Yep, I was looking at 3m black tape/vinyl. I used it in the past (early 90's) on my mustangs side molding, we kids back then would change the color every other month lol. I might do that, it's easier and lasts awhile. I found a parts car on craigslist, gotta call him and see what he wants for the molding and everything else online was pricey so, i'll figure it out this weekend. Thanks for all the feedback.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post