Hubcap removal?

[Camry 88]

My '88 Camry Deluxe has the full wheel plastic wheel covers. I want to remove them and give my car that stock "steelie" look.
However, I want to keep them looking nice in case I ever want to put them back on. I have tried to pry them off, but each time I try it acts like they are about to crack. Is there a special tool I need to get to take them off or am I just not trying hard enough?

[joeykrim]

Originally Posted by Camry 88

My '88 Camry Deluxe has the full wheel plastic wheel covers. I want to remove them and give my car that stock "steelie" look.
However, I want to keep them looking nice in case I ever want to put them back on. I have tried to pry them off, but each time I try it acts like they are about to crack. Is there a special tool I need to get to take them off or am I just not trying hard enough?

it has been years since i messed with the hub caps...i always used a flat head screw driver. there is a metal ring around the inside and clips, if i remember right. it does take a little force on the initial prying to pop it out. once you do one, you'll get the hang of it. although, since the car is old, i wouldnt be surprised if they are brittle. not much you can do about that at this point!

[white90dx]

Use the factory lug wrench that you can find in the tool bag... It has a pry bar end made just for that purpose. Make sure you stick it in far enough to get to the strong part of the hubcap.

It will sound like it is about to break, but that is just the metal 'fingers' sliding against the wheel - just go for it.

-Charlie

[mk2-1jz]

Never had a problem with this. 1 hand on the top in one of the holes, one hand on the bottom in one of the holes and tug hard.

[Camry 88]

Thanks!
I hope I have the Original Lug nut wrench. I have the jack but that's all I've seen so far.

[norcal505]

lol weak!
haha, but yeah safest way is to use a wider flathead. one on my old 89's cracked upon removal, when i was using my hand.

[RL-521]

screw driver buddy.

[Camry 88]

Thanks! As you can see, I already got them off. I think it looks better this way.