How do you remove the large faux carbon fiber trim strip on the dash

[Ozz]

Greetings,
My MM (300A) has a dent in the faux carbon fiber trim strip that goes from steering column to the right side of the dash and I would like to try to remove it. I think the only way will be for me to take the trim off. Does anyone know how to get this piece off? Will the clock stay in place? What about the climate control bezel w/ defroster switch and temperature sensor?
Is this a simple pull off operation or are there screws, etc?

Thanks

[Agent M79]

Hey Ozz! When you do that, take some pics please? As many as you can.

I am very interested in the structure behind the bezel.

I have an '04 so I don't have a clock and I am puzzling over a way to use that broad space on the bezel between the radio and the climate controls.

[hwy73]

Grab the right hand edge of the trim piece (open the front passenger door and wrap your fingers around the corner edge of the trim) and pull toward you. It will unclip. It is all one piece all the way to the steering column, including the "loop" around the climate controls (the panel with the knobs will stay in place). Work your way across, you will see how the clips work. The clock should be attached to the trim piece requiring you to unplug the electrical connector to move the trim piece clear of the dash. Replacement is the reverse, line up the clips and a few guide pins on the trim piece and push it back into place.

[Eric91Z]

Also, don't try to pull on just the CF itself. It is actually the plastic the CF is mounted on that all comes off. Don't ask how I know this for sure.

[Ozz]

Is the CF piece also plastic? If so, I may not be able to remove the small dent that is in mine...

I figured it was a snap in deal but wanted to be sure.

Thanks!

[snowbird]

Is the CF piece also plastic? If so, I may not be able to remove the small dent that is in mine...

I figured it was a snap in deal but wanted to be sure.

Thanks!
Ozz,

The moulding is made of plastic and hold into the back dash part by 4-5 "male to female" one and 1/2 " nail shaped slugs. See pic.

The finish, as you can see in the same pic, is very thin aluminum moulded on the front side of the moulding and holded here and there by curved teet. IMO, any attemp to part those two to repair the dents will mean destroying the parts. If the dents really annoy you, the solution is to mask it (but it will look bad) or order another moulding.

Good luck.

[Dragcity]

Yes, 'tis aluminum with a sticker on it.....


I thought I saw some of these peices on the 'bay' several weeks ago....

You could try taking it to one of those "Paintless Dent Repair" dudes. They have cool tools and very good skills. I would try that before boogering it up myself. Can't imagine they would charge any more that $25 bucks if you just bring in the trim peice itself...

They really do great work, I have had a couple indentions removed from body panels, they came out PERFECT!

[badscooter]

Anyone know the price of this part. I can't locate it on LincMerc website?

[Eric91Z]

My piece to the left of the steering wheel (with the TC and adjustable pedals control) got a little scratch on it when the company that installed my alarm/remote start was drilling it for the alarm LED. They didn't realize it was actually metal. They credited me $30 on the install. So, I called Ray (The Dealer) and ask for the price on the left side piece. If I remember right, it was right around $55. I am sure the right side piece is more.

[fastblackmerc]

Check with Ray "The Dealer".

[TheDonk]

Anyone know the price of this part. I can't locate it on LincMerc website?

Here's the info from the 2003 Parts / Price list:

Panel, Finish, Right, Marauder
3W3Z 54046A62 CAA $105.07

I have not checked any online sites for a current price
but this should give you a part # and a ballpark figure.