Hey guys, I need some help with how to remove the mesh grills that sit above the engine compartment. Mine have faded and they need to be removed and repainted. I don’t want to mask them off and paint them in place. I did a search here but was unable to find any thing. It appears that they are plastic retaining clips that hold the mesh in place. Can these be reused after they are removed? Are there any tricks to removing them intact? If not, can they be purchased? Thanks for your help.

Bob

I used a pair of "dyke" wire cutters and either an 8mm or a 10mm wrench!? Cant remember which but use the cutters to put outward pressure as you spin the nut counter clockwise!

It is held on by speed nuts. No turning required.

Grab the nut with a stout pair of plyers and pull. Wiggle around as needed. It will come off.

Zach

plan on new nuts. squeeze the existing nuts in halve 2 times. it's fast, they will fall apart. when pins start coming off of letters and numbers they become more trash.

I have done this many times and if you turn them while putting outward pressure they will be able to be reused!

Ace has a speed nut to replace them with.

thanks guys! looks like I need to get new ones on order.

Bob

I was able to reuse mine. Be careful taking them off and you might be able to salvage them.

The pins on the mesh grills are studier than the pins on the letters... but still be careful when removing the speed nuts. It's not a difficult job.

A good hardware store will have what you need. You might consider looking for rubber coated speed nuts. I think I remember Fastenal (the hardware distributor) having some.