Safest hubcap removal tool?

[SL113fan]

I was surprised not to find anything in the archives on this subject:  What is the safest tool to use for removing the hubcaps?  Mercedes manuals show the end of the lug wrench as the choice tool; however, I feel that this could deform the hubcap should any of the clips stick.  Wood seems like a better choice, but then again these hubcaps appear delicate.

Thx.

[Douglas]

I just yank them off by hand.

Douglas Kim
New York, NY
280 SL #016220

[n/a]

I have alloys, but you might want to try a carpet installation tool. Looks like a wide chisel and they come in a very hard plastic. I saw them at the Home Depot tool rental counter for sale. Might work nicely. I used the lug wrench when I had the hub caps and was careful.

Shawn Rock
Philly, PA USA
1968 280 SL 4 speed

[rwmastel]

Are you talking about the early 2-piece caps or the later 1-piece caps?

Rodd
Powell, Ohio, USA
1966 230SL, Euro, Auto, Leather, both  tops
1994 E420

[hauser]

I believe 113Fan is talking about his 1970 280sl . I do the same as Doug, I pull mine off. It  gets easier with practice especially putting them back on .

1969 280sl 5 spd        1999 ML320          Gainesville,Fl.

[Cees Klumper]

I pull mine off with a large screwdriver most of the time. I installed all-new retainer clips so they fit on really tight. I would not worry about damaging them this way though, I think they are quite tough.

Cees Klumper in Amsterdam
'69 white 280 SL automatic