I just purchased the front and rear flexible bumper molding strips to replace the ones on the wife's LS. Over the years the chrome covering has deteriorated. They are attached via adhesive backing. I was thinking of using a hair dryer (heat) to loosen the adhesive grip (if it works). Anyone know of a better way?



Rear bumper strip shown (p/n 52751)

 

I have that strip bulging out in one spot and I tried a hair-dryer to heat it up and pushed to make it go back.
That didn't work.
I will watch this article and see what others say as I will have to remove at least one end and then re-glue using E-6000 which is a good industrial glue sold by Amazon and Walmart.

 

The hard part is clean up the left over residue after remove the old moulding. Old adhesive is dry and hard when on the car for so long so will take time and patient. Leave the car in the sun and heat gun method to aid in pulling off old moulding and as much adhesive as possible. Highly recommend 3M General Purpose Adhesive Cleaner to remove residue or Goof Off as alternative but becareful with Goof Off as very strong so use with care. Dab the area lightly with weapon of choice then let it sit couple of second before push off and repeat . I know 3M made the chrome moulding strip but need to look up as OEM price is .

 

I was told when inquiring to resray my front bumper that that piece would have to be replaced. Does anyone know the cost of that piece?

 

Bought both, front and rear, online from RockAuto. The front was $31.79, the rear was $39.79 plus shipping. Used a coupon code (found online) for 5% off.

 

bringing back this old thread rather then making a new one. All of the chrome trim on the LS430 i just bought is worn looking. I would like to know where I can find a complete kit to replace everything on the whole car . Would something like this 40 foot roll work ? Or do i need to buy pre cut OEM style molding ? And I am gonna have my car detailed by a pro and get a few dings pulled. Should I have a body shop replace all this molding before or after I have it detailed ? Do I even need a shop for this ? Sounds like cleaning the residue off is a pain in the butt

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Chrome-Molding-40-Foot-Roll-Mirror-Hood-Trunk-Trim-Kit-DIY-Pro-/161253720564?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&fits=Make%3ALexus%7CModel%3ALS430&hash=item258b7881f4&vxp=mtr

 

If the car hasn't been maintained and the chrome trim looks dull or silver, you can probably fit it without replacing. Just use a light rubbing compound. It won't take too much effort to clean it up. I accidentally discovered that on my UL on the rear window trim. I actually thought it was silver plastic until I cleaned it. Beneath was nice shiny chrome. I now pay more attention to the trim when I clean and way.

Try it, you could be surprised with the easy results.