I've never seen the weird looking plastic "rivets" before on a Ford. How do I pop them off (I'm trying to do a front splash guard install)?

I see them used on the engine cover and on the rocker panels.

 

I'm not sure exactly which ones you're talking about (can you post a pic?) but if they're like the one on the radiator cover, you just get under either side of the center pin with two very small screw drivers - or similar tool with a think blade - and pull the pin up.

 

Yes, that is the doohickey I was talking about. How reliable are they after they are removed? The rocker panels use them as well and I am planning to attach splash guards using those retainers. The guards have added mass and added wind resistance. Am i better off just using christmas tree plugs for that application?

 

They can be re-use without a problem, just be careful not to booger them up on removal. If I remember right the plastic is pretty soft and can be easily damaged if you're in a hurry to pop them out.

I see what you're saying now about the mud flaps. Those rivets are designed to go through a piece of a certain thickness and then grip onto the sheetmetal underneath. If you sandwich something else in there then the rivet won't reach in as far. Don't know if it'll be a problem or not? Give it a try and see how it looks. Worst case you'll need to fasten them in some other fashion.

 

Do you happen to know if AutoZone or similar local stores would carry these replacement fasteners (in case they become FUBAR'd)?

 

Yes they sell them. Take one with you to show the person that helps you.

 

Where did you buy your front splashguards? I have rear ones and want to do also front. Thanks!

 

I did a front bumber replacement... the ones over the radiator are different than the ones in the wheel well.

The radiator ones just pull out. The ones in the wheel well need a quarter turn to the left and the center portion should pop out. Then you can pull it out.

To put them back in I found it easiest to seperate the 2 pieces, and just press that outer piece into the fender, followed by the inner peice. You should not have to do any turning to get them in, just press.

 

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eB...0026749&rd=1,1

hese have a 1996 part # but are listed as the univeral Mustang front splash guards in the Ford catalog.

 

Thanks for the link.