430 Sticky 430

Every black item in my 2005 430 is sticky now and worse than ever. I am considering taking the things out and having them redone and reinstalled. However, what do you do about the black painted steering column that can't just be easily removed sent to a place and sent back. thanks.

 

Hello,
The black painted steering column surround is very easy to remove.
Five fasteners (if I remember correctly) - two screws and three machine screws, all removed from underneath.
The surround is in two halves (top and bottom) and can be easily packaged and shipped,
There is also a leather (vinyl) component which needs to be removed from the top half and re-glued (I used double sided tape) when the parts are refinished.
The VIN plate on the top half will need to be masked by whoever does the refinishing. I would not attempt to remove it.
I hope this information helps.
Regards,
Les

 

The VIN number plate is easily pried off as it is stuck down by double sided adhesive tape. I replaced the steering wheel surround with carbon fiber unit and just transferred the VIN number plate. No problem removing it.

 

You should check with Dave at StickyRX in Orchard Park, NY.
Best possible refinishing work you’ll find. You can see videos of their process on their website.
Some say it’s pricey, but you and your F430 are worth it !!!
Good Luck,
Dominic

 

Thank you dor this, I'm doing same, however, mine won't budge

Any tips for removal?

 

Possibly gentle heat applied with heat gun from the backside while simultaneously trying to pry it off while heating it. See if you can get an edge start to lift and then continue gently the process. Another trick is to get some dental floss under the number plate and “saw”it loose with a back and forth motion attempting to cut the adhesive tape holding it on. Good luck.

 

I was gonna try the dental floss trick, but I can't even get a corner up.I guess I'll give it some heat and see what happens

 

John, drill a small hole (1/4” - 1/2”) from the back of the cover towards one side of the plate. Just through the black plastic. You’ll see when you’re through quite easily. Then use a screwdriver or something blunt to push up on the plate. Works like a charm. Did it on mine.

 

Interesting, thank you!

 

Also can try a small angled pick, the needle point will get under the edge and start to wedge it off the backing plate a little at a time. Then might get the floss under or a small flat screw driver.