Frustrated - body parts fitting

**RedMk2Gti** · 08-05-2008, 08:25 AM

When I pulled my Mk1 apart I found one piece of metal side trim was double size taped in, that mean that panel was damaged and the body repairer decided to use double side tape to put it back in. Now I can understand why.

I ordered this set of trim clip from ebay http://cgi.ebay.com.au/VW-GOLF-MK1-G...dZp1638Q2em122 and started to install all side trim, but I just can't work it out. I tried both way, 1) put the clip in the car, then push the trim into the clip, but there is only very very small gap that allow the trim to push into the clip, try many times, give up ! 2) put the clip into the trim first, but then clip pin is too big for the hole !

One reason could be the clip in ebay is crap, if anyone has done this please share some secret with me. The last option will be double side tape

**jets** · 08-05-2008, 09:02 AM

When I did this job last I inserted the clip into the hole in the door & pushed the peg in flush to secure the clip. The side moulding then pushes over the clip with reasonable force required.

**Jarred** · 08-05-2008, 09:05 AM

I know the way i took mine off, is by actully sliding them so the the clips come out the end of the side trim.

THey look to be ok pieces, that you've bought, i'd whack em in the holes first to check fitment, and then slide the side trim over the clips. right on the edge of the clip you can jam a screwdriver in the middle (look at the back now) and the little rubber piece on the end pops out (weith a bit of strong arm ing. careful, I stabbed myself in the hand with a screwdriver at this point)

anyways, now with that side piece open you should be able to side the trims on.

hope that makes sense

**gtimk5** · 08-05-2008, 09:43 AM

They are the best clips available with the little gaskets on them.
Put the clip in the body, slide the peg into them flush.
Put the strip on the lower part of the clip and whack the top of the trim over them with the palm of your hand. They are tight but good. If the panel has any bodyfiller in it then the peg will be very tight to insert. I sometimes run a small screwdriver around in the hole to make sure there isnt any muck in there. Be careful not to take any paint off though.
Cheers and good luck, Andrew

**RedMk2Gti** · 08-05-2008, 11:30 AM

Thanks guys

Sliding in probably is the way, I just didn't think the end part of the trim can be taken out.

Jets, I know it requires reasonable force to push it in, but there almost no gap to apply momentum

**gtimk5** · 08-05-2008, 02:38 PM

I have fitted hundreds of these things. I know that sliding them on isnt the way mate. The barbs on the inside of the trim will damage the clips and also I have NEVER removed the end caps on the strips as they are moulded onto it.
Up to you I suppose.
A friendly cheers, Andrew

**RedMk2Gti** · 08-05-2008, 09:24 PM

Not sure if I have done it upside down

Is the chrome metal part at the top or the bottom ?

**Preen59** · 08-05-2008, 09:37 PM

The bottom. use a drill (5mm from memory) and rmove any excess paint from the hole. Also, WD40 or silicon spray will make the pins easier to push in. Just squirt a bit on the centre before you put it in.

**RedMk2Gti** · 08-05-2008, 09:50 PM

Originally Posted by Preen59

The bottom. use a drill (5mm from memory) and rmove any excess paint from the hole. Also, WD40 or silicon spray will make the pins easier to push in. Just squirt a bit on the centre before you put it in.

Pushing the clip into the hole is not a problem. I just can't plug the trim into the clip