sharpshine

Hey everyone,

Does anyone have any great little trick on removing the threaded plug that holds in the wheel well lining?
I am trying to get to my antenna motor. I am using the recent write up that Bob_98SR5 did on the "Taco Whip Antenna Mod"

Thanks

jx94148

Do you mean the little plastic doo dads that hold the liner in there? I'm pretty sure you just carefully pull them straight out bu hand. I'm not 100% certain of this. Hope we get a definate answer for you soon.

sharpshine

Yeah, the doo dads, I guess they are plastic with a metal threaded instert. I tried pulling at a couple of them and pulled the wheel well lining out of one doo dad but it stayed in the fender. Are they a one time deal? Do you have to destroy them to get them out? It doesnt seem like it. I thought there might be a tool or a trick with a screwdriver or something that would pop them out. I want to put them back when I am done.

FattyCBR

You pulled the rubber sheet off right and the plug stayed in there? If so to replace the rubber sheet stretch the hole so you hok the rubber over one side of the plug then stretch the rubber around the entire plug until it all slides under. It's hard to describe, but only takes a minute or two to replace. I've done it several times.

sharpshine

I will give it a try. Thanks!

butnut

Those are a real PITA. It's hit or miss. The plug fits in a square hole and there are 2 tabs on 2 corners. I use a small slot driver to pry and a longnose plier to pull. They break easy. You're doing good if you save 3 out of 5. Toyota calls them 'grommets'. I bought a bag of 10 from the dealer ($10.00). I installed a new power antanae and side markers, broke a bunch of them...:mad:
butnut

DavidO06

Yeah, i will have to agree about them being a PITA! I replaced my power antena motor and had the same trouble. I would just try and push those deals on the sides in while pulling on it. I got them all out some how w/out breaking them, but it took FOREVER! i wish there was a better way.

jacksonpt

Once you figure out how they come out, they are a piece of cake. I used vice grips to grab the "doodad". They have small "barbs" on eiter side that hold it in. You have to squeeze these barbs together to release the plug. I used a pair of needle-nose pliars for this. The first plug I all but ruined trying to pull out. Once I finally got it out I saw how they were held in and the rest were easy.