wheel covers 280sl, mounting of

[69280sl]

Its been years since I last did it and I don't remember if there were shortcuts. Im having a very hard time engaging all the clips.
1.. Is it better to start all (I have 4 @ 90 deg) at the same engagement into the wheel, and try driving each in a little at a time or
2.. hook two in and force the opposite two? or
3.. Something altogether different.

All advice gratefully accepted.

[ja17]

The wheel covers came from the factory with five clips, four can work, three is risking losing an expensive wheel cover! Any damaged or incorrectly bent clips will make the installation more difficult. Start by aligning the tire air valve through the wheel cover first. I install the wheel cover at a slight angle off vertical. I use my knee to hold the installed section in place while I knock the rest of the wheel cover in place using my palm or a rubber mallet.

[Mike Hughes]

Joe's advice applies equally well to the clip setup and installation of the wheel trim rings in earlier cars with "dog-dish" hub caps.

[mdsalemi]

Its been years since I last did it and I don't remember if there were shortcuts.

Most of the time when I wash the Pagoda, the wheel covers are REMOVED, and cleaned separately inside my house in the sink. I don't want to risk scratching them on the concrete driveway, that's why I bring them inside.

When you remove them frequently the reinstallation becomes second nature. I've never need a rubber mallet but a good push with the palm of my hand usually gets it on.

[69280sl]

Thanks all,

Joe's knee brace tip worked better than anything I had previously tried.