Removing top rail cap and roof rack

[Billyphxaz]

Hi Guys,
My VX needs the top roof painted. Any tricks on removing the rail caps or removing the rails.
I don't want to break anything.
Thanks Billy

[89Vette]

For the rails caps, I use a steel pick tool with an "L" shape on one end. Stick it under the outer bottom lip and GENTLY pull outwards to release cap from it's "lip". 50% chance you might break one since the plastic is so old. Will refer you to a guy who makes/sells replacement sets....if necessary. 3D printed maybe? I don't remember.

For the rails themselves....
http://www.vehicross.info/showthread.php/24291-Roof-Rail-Removal?highlight=roof+rails+rust+removal+paint

[Thelgord]

I used a very thin flat head screwdriver. One of the caps got a minor chip but it was on the inside. Seriously thought I was going to break them getting them off.

To get the rail and tail fin off you need to pull the head liner.

[Billyphxaz]

Guys I have another set to remove and I think I'm going to use painter tape to cover the whole cap HOPING this xtra support helps not to chip or crack any part of the rail...we'll see.
Thanks for the info.