Encountering difficulties removing knobs in your vintage car? You might be facing a common issue with your Old Car Knob Removal Tool. Let’s clarify the proper technique and address potential problems to ensure smooth removal without damage.
It appears you might be using the tool backward. The image labeled “But Not This Way” actually demonstrates the correct clip-to-handle and tool-to-handle orientation for clip removal. The tool is designed to slide behind the knob and engage with the retaining clip to release it.
The issue likely lies in the tool’s notch width relative to your car’s knob handle. Examine the groove on your handle where the clip sits. You’ll notice it’s slightly narrower towards the knob end and considerably smaller at the back.
For effective clip extraction, the tool’s notch needs to be just a fraction wider than the groove on the knob side. This allows it to bypass the handle shaft and press against the clip’s ears. If the notch is too narrow, you can carefully widen it using a small flat file.
Furthermore, the success of this tool depends on the clip’s design. The ears of the retaining clips must protrude sufficiently for the tool to catch onto them. On some older models, like a ’38, the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) clips may not extend beyond the knob shaft. In such cases, this type of removal tool might be ineffective, and a plier-style knob removal tool would be necessary instead.
If these points are unclear, further clarification with additional images can be provided to assist you.