Stupid Plastic Screw Clip Alternatives?

[KABQ]

Does anyone have any recommendations for an easier alternative to these stupid clips? Or do I just keep a bunch on hand since they're so cheap?

It seems like I have to replace at least 1 in 5 every time I have to mess with them, and they're just a huge hassle to remove.

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[B Miller]

 

[Ksjrb03]

They are super easy to remove when you know how to do it right. You can’t press in while unscrewing. Negative pressure.

 

[604Bronco]

Nail gun. That'll hold trim panels on and easier to install.

Disclaimer: Do not try this on your Bronco.

 

[BigFootie]

I just slip a trim tool under them as I unscrew them.

Other option is to replace them with pop rivet. But I find those even more of a pita to remove!

 

[Mlarv]

You could alway duck tape it.

I hate those clips also. I have figured out how to remove them without damaging a bunch. As stated above a trim tool under the larger piece, apply light pressure. Don't push the screw driver very hard, just sort of place it in the slot and turn very easy. At least that works foe me.

 

[kr_1315]

Of all the clips used on new vehicles, these are the easiest to remove and reuse without damage.

 

[KABQ]

I just slip a trim tool under them as I unscrew them.

Other option is to replace them with pop rivet. But I find those even more of a pita to remove!

I'm an aircraft mechanic, so I've drilled out my share of rivets. I'm pretty sure that's actually easier than these clips!

 

[swami37]

Get you some FLEX SEAL tape. That stuff will hold nice

 

[KABQ]

They are super easy to remove when you know how to do it right. You can’t press in while unscrewing. Negative pressure.

Yeah I have an extra grippy textured screwdriver I use on them so I can kind of pull while unscrewing them and I use a trim tool as well if needed, and I still mess them up. My buddy was helping me yesterday and I think he destroyed EVERY SINGLE ONE he touched.

 

[sportcoupe]

There are much better plastic clips that are easy to remove. The Ford ones are poor design.

 

[CM81]

I just bought one's off Amazon since I tend to break them even when using pry tool for them.

 

[CarGuy]

I buy them by the gross.

https://www.harborfreight.com/automotive-plastic-fastener-kit-240-piece-57671.html?event_id=182487

 

[SHANUT]

Does anyone have any recommendations for an easier alternative to these stupid clips? Or do I just keep a bunch on hand since they're so cheap?

It seems like I have to replace at least 1 in 5 every time I have to mess with them, and they're just a huge hassle to remove.

These work great. And they’re easily reusable.

 

[RimrockPaul]

Does anyone have any recommendations for an easier alternative to these stupid clips? Or do I just keep a bunch on hand since they're so cheap?

It seems like I have to replace at least 1 in 5 every time I have to mess with them, and they're just a huge hassle to remove.

Napa has a push in that works much better than the POS with the screw.

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