Trim above doors replacement

[bymep]

I am looking to replace chrome trim that runs above the doors the entire length of the roof with shadowline trim. What's the correct procedure for removing it without breaking the clips? When I pulled shadowline trim off the donor car I think I broke every single clip. Or am I stuck having to replace the clips?

As far as clips go I see there are 2 different ones listed. Which ones usually break?

Lastly, has anyone found a replacement rubber seal that goes behind the trim? I know BMW doesn't sell just the seal, you have to buy the whole trim.

[setconstr]

Break the clips and buy new ones their cheap. I've done it a few times and that seems to be the only way the trim that goes around the back door doesn't want to come out on it's own so be careful with that. There is a small clip that hold the trim pieces together and it has a locking tab on it, my experience is it's easier to remove the whole thing at once then start from the back to put it back on because that piece has 3 different clips that line up with holes on the body the rest just snaps on with the new clips

[bymep]

I see there are 2 different clips. Any idea how many of each are required to do both sides?

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[740ilDuke]

Most of the clips will break. I think there are 3-4 on the A pillar and 5-6 on the roofline. So, if doing it all get at least 20. Don't forget to order the clips and retainers for the "L" shaped trim with the rubber on it around the rear doors. I think they have 4 per side.

When installing the long piece, place the clips on the car and give the trim a sturdy bump with your palm and it will snap on. Get some thin double face 3M as
well, the factory uses it because the rails like to move on their own. Alternatively, a dot of good glue in a couple places will probably do just as good, but may hinder removal later on. I removed and reset my trim due to a gap where the two pieces join.

It's easy..I avoided doing it for a year or more to find out it's a snap.

[cyclops2]

Here is a procedure I wrote 12 years ago. wow time flies...

http://www.bimmerboard.com/forums/posts/166650

[bymep]

Here is a procedure I wrote 12 years ago. wow time flies...

http://www.bimmerboard.com/forums/posts/166650

Thanks!