Update: I finally got those suckers off. Used the impact on the non stripped screws until they finally budged and broke off the handle off around the stripped screws and used a lockjaw to remove the screws. What a day, now I treat myself with apple pie.

My advice to all future rear trim removers, use a needle nose lockjaw and save yourself a lot of hassle and sore arms.

Thanks all, happy thanksgiving.

 

Glad you got them out!! What a pitta! Lol btw the parts came and I just need to pick them up at the post office.

 

Lol phew! Glad thats over with. Lmk about the parts and show pics

 

I removed them in all 4 SC's I've had and never had such an issue. Your luck, eh?

 

I guess the lubricant/WD-40 helped, glad to hear the screw finally broke free.

 

^ Didnt use it, mine finished and most stores were closed for thanksgiving. Unlike other screws on the trim the handle screws are bolted directly into the metal body, and after years and years and years they just got stuck. No loctite traces, hence the heat didnt work. Once you remove them once its all a breeze again. Just dont screw them in too tight to prevent future "stuckage", or at least use some sort of screw lubricant upon installation.

Lockjaw FTW