Remove/Replace Rocker Molding 'T' Nuts

[Kenn S.]

Has anyone removed the 'T' nuts that retain the screws holding rocker moldings on? I'm wondering if they are a press fit, tack welded, or what? Is it best to just grind the back of the 'T' until you can pop it out, or some gentle persuasion from the front removes them (assuming they're not rusted in, which most cars seem to have).

I wasn't able to remove the screws on a couple, so I drilled them out, with more or less success. I'd then ordered a replacement set of screws, and to my surprise the package came with the 'T' nuts. So happy day...I'll replace the nuts. I was hoping for some experienced guidance before I accidently tear up my birdcage...

FYI, the body is off the frame so I have full access, albeit tight while the body is on the dolly... But I could lie on my back and grind, if that's the best approach.

[Kenn S.]

Re: Remove/Replace Rocker Molding 'T' Nuts

Given no other inputs, and in case anyone comes across this while searching, I wound up grinding the backsides down until they were thinned, which resulted in the tack welds also being thinned. I then tapped them from the outside, which broke the welds over a series of hits. Once the head of the nut went through the hole, I was able to wiggle the remaining weld spots to break the hold (fatigue the weld), then I ground the surface smooth for replacement.

They are tack welded on the wide ends of the flange. And to replace, I'll do the same.

If you have to do this with the body on the car, I'm not sure how you would accomplish that. It would depend on the clearance between the frame and the birdcage. I'd suggest simple drilling then see if you can place a new 'T' nut in. Or carefully drill the size of the screw to remove the old screw and then tap.