Trim clips

[rollinstone]

2014 5.4L Limited. I’m talking about the cover that extends over the radiator(s) and the trim clips that hold it down. My clips have a small Phillips screw in the center. The screw just spins and doesn’t release the clip. Does a regular trim clip removal tool pop them out? I’m reluctant to give it muscle for fear of breaking the clip…you can never match up a broken clip.

 

[max78]

Mine failed as well, I just forced them out with a trim tool and they all broke. I didn't really care because I bought replacements. If you want to try and salvage them get under the screw head with a pick, needle, or small screw driver and then remove them.

If the screw part is spinning, then lift up slightly on the clip as a whole and that will allow the threads to bite just enough to start unscrewing. I had to do that with the new ones.

 

[Brianstl]

I had the same problem. I used a trim tool to remove them. I ordered some after market fasteners for m EBay and that took care of the problem. It’s another cheap Ford failed part.

 

[Mark Buckner]

These fasteners get brittle over time from the heat. Lots and lots of options for replacements from Amazon. Here's one:

Amazon.com

 

[07Tjherr]

I use these I have a bunch from when I worked at Polaris. Sometimes I do have to drill the hole a little bigger.

www.amazon.com