Steer wheel emb mod (w/pics)

[TJHammer]

2011 SE I4 black on black interior: Probably not going to do a full spread until spring when I lower her, but thought I'd post the successful steering wheel emblem mod (in pursuit of a chrome free ride
Carbon fiber interior kit next week
Caution not to pull hard, be patient, over 9 long tabs; try VERY hard not to BEND emblem on removal (I needed to use clear epoxy to get her flush again)
Pics:

[lilajto]

omg! ive been trying to do this for so long. howd u do it? did u heat it first?

[TJHammer]

Used blowdryer to heat it up. Like I said in original post: Do it patiently, little lift on each side at a time. The prongs are long like teeth, I ended up snapping a couple. A couple broken is ok, but don't go nuts, because you need them for a more secure, flush re-application. You can put some painters tape around it to avoid scratching (before you get goin with the plastic knives). It's basically a heat up, wedge plastic knives all around and work each side up slowly.

It will bend, so you'll need to use clear epoxy and extra heat to get her back flush. But it will work!

Perhaps disconnect battery to avoid honking the horn excessively as you work. Even disabling the air bag would be a good idea as well.

[lilajto]

Do you remember where the prongs are? And also how do you doable the air bags? I don't want to over heat it and have the air bag blue up on me

[TJHammer]

Originally Posted by lilajto

Do you remember where the prongs are? And also how do you doable the air bags? I don't want to over heat it and have the air bag blue up on me

The plastic "teeth" are situated throughout the emblem. You will see them as you slowly pull her off. These plastic "teeth" are deep down into the steering wheel (horn and airbag cover),
I'd say about 1/4". As you pull you will realize they are glued in at their ends. This is how I stretched em to clip bit off the end or they will pull out. Just be patient and as gentle as possible.
Air bag can't deploy with negative disconnected from battery.

[lilajto]

ok sweet. ill do that soon! thankyou!

[TJHammer]

Yes, and post pics. Not too a common a mod, it'll be nice to have some company

[lilajto]

for sure. ill see when i have the time to do it