Body / Glass: 53 C/K rear fender moulding instalation

[jtjim]

I have new retainer clips and have polished the rear fender mouldings (#303568). I would like to know if there is a good way to install them without pounding them on with a hammer. I don't want to damage the paint or the mouldings. The new clips appear to be wide enough that it will require some persuasion to get the trim onto them.

[RadioRoy]

How about some lubrication, like Vaseline or something that will wash off? They make lube for getting into wet suits that is water soluble.

[rockne10]

Studebaker thinks of everything.
You will notice your clips have a different edge on each side. The sharper side faces outboard, with the curved and beveled side towards the trunk lid.
Set the outer edge of your molding snugly against the sharper side, then simply press in to place over the inner beveled side. The butt of your palm should be all the tool you need.

[studegary]

As Rockne10 states, no tool, other than your hands, is needed if the clips are on correctly.

[345 DeSoto]

A SMALL bit of some sort of grease (silicone di-electric grease) on the snap down side of the clip will make "palm" installation a breeze.

[1953champcoupe]

If you have trouble getting them installed don't feel lonely, I got them on but used a rubber mallet to persuade it. It wasn't as easy as I had hoped.

[jtjim]

I have a tendency to worry and over- think some jobs. I fastened the clips without crushing the little legs. Then used some grease and they went on pretty easily. Was able to bang them with the palm of my hand. Thanks for the tips.