Firstfives.org

OK - I'm almost done restoring (if "done" is a relevant concept . . . ) my 81 528i. Here is one of the smaller issues I'm facing.

I want to remove the "528i" emblem (silver metal letters) on my trunk to repair some rust underneath it, and then reattach it. The emblem is in acceptable condition - I just want to get at the rust underneath.

How does one remove the emblem? Maybe you just pry it off, but I didn't want to mess around and break something in the process out of ignorance.

Reply, or text/email
Brian Younger
262-672-0733
brian@youngersolutions.com

The emblem has studs that press fit into flexible grommets in holes in the trunk lid. You can pry it off, but you need to work evenly around the perimeter. I use a plastic pry tool and fulcrum it against a microfiber cloth to ensure I don't mar the paint. You'll quickly find the locations of the studs and focus your prying there.

You'll need to replace the four grommets. They are usually damaged by removal of the emblem, and after time they lose their resiliency. p/n 51141849885.

The emblems are actually fairly robust and can handle a little bending in the runners between the numbers, but you obviously don't want to push to the breaking point. If you do bend it, to avoid breakage straighten it slowly a little at a time, giving the metal time to rest between corrections.

"The emblems are actually fairly robust and can handle a little bending in the runners between the numbers, but you obviously don't want to push to the breaking point. If you do bend it, to avoid breakage straighten it slowly a little at a time, giving the metal time to rest between corrections."

Thanks for the tip, man! I'll be taking note of that.

I thought the "528i" badge was secured only by double sided tape...? In which case using fishing line in a sawing motion has always worked for me.

PatinaBeforePolish wrote: ↑Tue Nov 17, 2020 8:04 am I thought the "528i" badge was secured only by double sided tape...? In which case using fishing line in a sawing motion has always worked for me.

I'm not sure I haven't seen both. Or maybe it's just the "i" that is held on only by tape.

For the 1981 that's how it is. Realoem lists the "i" as "adhered".

Here's a view of the back of the "528" that's the same as on my '81, showing the pins.