Xoutpost.com - Installing Painted Side Moldings on a BMW X5

Contributed by: SilverBullet®

The only thing holding the molding in place is a very strong double sided tape.

Have to replace all 4 moldings as they will break when you start the removal process. The molding is very brittle and hollow on the inside. Next I had the new moldings sanded, treated, primered, 4 coats of paint and 3 clear coats, and baked by a auto body shop. Very thick and smooth matching the OEM feel and texture.

http://www.bmwmotorsports.org/crew/u...s/zxzxzxzx.jpg
Picture quality very poor as I used my friend Digi camera.

Tools and parts needed for removal of side moldings plus lots of patience as you don't want to damage your beauty paint. I got a plastic putty knife from home depot, soft, flexible, and gentle to paint.

http://www.bmwmotorsports.org/crew/u...ges/cxcxcx.jpg

To remove you have to heat up the side of the molding to get the sticky glue nice and soft. Wedge the putty knife in and start separating the glue from the door. Once you reach a plastic stub the molding will
break. That's fine just start the process again. Once off clean area thoroughly (GooGone) and apply the new piece. Press and hold firmly for about a minute.

http://www.bmwmotorsports.org/crew/u...rerererrer.jpg

Part #:

51-13-8-40-649 $19.26
51-13-8-40-650 $19.26
51-13-8-40-653 $10.50
51-13-8-40-654 $10.50

Paint Job $180

Have fun