Arm rests removal

[Neuf]

I have a 2004 journey and in the process of removing the arm rests. I have read the threads about soaking them in the mix of bleach, water, and dawn. The results are impressive. I bought a punch kit and removed 3 of the 4 pins from the 4 arm rests. One pin is only half way out and not moving anymore. Any tips to get the remaining pin out? I assume not hitting the pin and maybe off center with my punch? Also, one the seats where I have removed the pins, the arm rests will not come off. Any tips for getting the arm off after the pin has been removed? I tried hitting upward with a hammer without success.

 

[Neuf]

Can anyone help me?

 

[Fishtales]

When I considered removal, I was going to remove the enture side support as well (not just the piece that is pinned). You could give Pompanette a call and see if they have any ideas.

 

[Ky Grady]

Looking at your pads, I don't think soaking them will help you. Looks like the vinyl coating is gone and all you have left is the rubber pad. Either vinyl paint or the overlays that Pompanette sells will be your only fix. I will tell you the rubber pads are t-shirt grabbers when you walk by them. Can always borrow a couple of pairs of your wife's footies and stretch over them. I did that on my last guys trip to help keep mine clean. In you case, to cover up the rubber pad.

 

[Fishtales]

I'd give Pompanette a call. They still make the chair and might sell you replacement pieces that you could re-pin to the arm. Worth a shot.

 

[TortugaBob]

Those look to be the same as what I have, only 1-pin to punch out. Make sure it did not break off. I actually broke punch is the process, but was able to get them done. Just get some small SS bolts to replace. They should just lift out, maybe a little help from hammer.

 

[PointedRose]

Try some liquid wrench penetrating oil for the stuck pin. All else fails, could always go with the dremel and cut it off, but maybe overkill. Might also be able to replace the seats and sell the old as is.