Removal / Installation of WHII Statesman Fascia

[veeque92]

Hi all, I was just wandering If anyone knows a better way of removing / installing the fascia that goes up the centre of the car and wraps around the climate/stereo/gear selector. (The Woodgrain bit)
I do know how to do it but can't seem to do it without having the two rub together around the join when I put it in.
My concern is that I am getting it painted in a few weeks and I dont want to scratch the paint off when I put it back in.
Any help/advice would be dreatly appreciated.

[ScottB_33]

Hi Veeque 92,
Just fitted the statesman woodtrim to my VT Berlina and I agree what a bitch to fit in. Was really difficult to place in without the two pieces rubbing together slightly because of the tight fit together. All I can say is good luck and maybe have a rag handy to slide between the two woodgrains then remove once in place to stop any scratches. Bloody hard though!!! Pity you have to paint the woodgrain though as to buy them they are bloody expensive!

[veeque92]

I didnt have to paint it was just sick of the woodgrain.
Got it painted when the bottom of my car got painted today.
Yes was a bitch to get back in, but thought about it after and I reckon if you file a bit of the front off the gear selector boot, (the big flat part that doesnt move) it should make it easier as this is what is making it so tight. Then once it is on there you shouldnt be able to see the bit that was filed.
Looks bloody nice painted though, makes the interior look 10 years more modern than it did and brightens it up a bit. Just gotta be careful not to scratch it now.