Installing car mouldings, also known as trims, can significantly enhance your vehicle’s aesthetics and protect its body from minor damages. While some might attempt this task without specialized equipment, the question often arises: is there a tool designed for installing car mouldings? This guide delves into the process of car moulding installation, highlighting the importance of preparation, technique, and whether specific tools can simplify this automotive task.
Proper preparation is paramount when it comes to installing car mouldings. Before even thinking about tools, the first crucial step involves meticulously cleaning and preparing the surface where the moulding will be applied. This is especially critical around areas like the drip rail, as demonstrated in the context of BMW E9 coupes. Over time, these areas can accumulate dirt, old adhesive, or even excess paint, particularly if the car has been repainted. Using flexible sanding pads, like those from 3M, is highly recommended to achieve a smooth and even surface. Pay close attention to the front and rear ends of the rail, as these spots often have thicker paint or filler that needs to be smoothed out for the trim to fit seamlessly.
Ensuring the underlying structure is correctly aligned is another key preparation step. For instance, when installing drip rail trim, it’s important to confirm that the aluminum flat piece lining the door and rear window opening is already in place. The trim is designed to fold over this aluminum lining, creating a secure fit. Furthermore, inspect the sheet metal “lips” that come together under the vertical rail. Any seam sealer or gaps between these lips should be addressed before installation. Using a hammer to gently align these lips can create a flush surface, crucial for a proper trim installation.
The installation process itself often begins at the front of the moulding. A recommended technique is to start about three-quarters of the way up the rail and gently push downwards. The curvature of the trim should gradually align with the roof’s contour. Twisting the trim slightly can aid in pushing the top part onto the rail first, followed by pushing it downwards and inwards to lock it into position. This technique, often demonstrated in online videos, allows for a controlled and even application of the moulding.
When navigating the installation, especially around more complex curves or the rear end of the vehicle, the question of specialized tools becomes more pertinent. While not always indispensable, tools designed for moulding installation can be incredibly helpful, particularly for achieving a professional finish and preventing damage to the trim or the car’s body.
Specifically addressing the question “Is There A Tool For Installing Car Mouldings?”, the answer is yes, several tools are available. These tools range from general-purpose hand tools to specialized tools designed for specific types of mouldings. A common type of tool is essentially a plastic or nylon lever or wedge. These tools help to apply even pressure along the moulding, snapping it into place without damaging the delicate trim surface or the paintwork. They are particularly useful in tighter spots and for ensuring consistent pressure distribution.
The article also mentions a specific tool from KoogleWerks, originally designed for a BMW 2002 but adapted for use on a coupe. This tool, reportedly a copy of a BMW factory tool, highlights that even within specific car brands, specialized tools exist to aid in tasks like moulding installation. The user in the original article found it useful as a finishing tool, especially in challenging sections like the rear end, although some modification was needed to make it suitable for the coupe model. The rear end of mouldings often presents the greatest challenge due to variations in shape between the trim and body rail, requiring more force and finesse to fit correctly.
In conclusion, while skilled individuals might successfully install car mouldings without specialized tools, the availability of tools designed for this purpose can significantly simplify the process and improve the outcome. For challenging areas or when aiming for a factory-like finish, investing in a car moulding installation tool is highly recommended. Proper preparation, combined with the right technique and potentially a specialized tool, ensures a successful and aesthetically pleasing car moulding installation.
