Handbrake cover removal...

[IK200]

Howdy,

My apologies if this has been asked before, I did a search and didn't find anything.

I've got an Astra F and want to replace the handbrake lever cover (the front plastic bit and pouch) with a new aftermarket one. Question is, how does one get the front plastic bit off?

[John Z]

Pull the gaitor off the rear of the handbrake grip & then drive it off from behind. Can be very tight, warming with a hair dryer will help. I used a spanner that was a close fit over the handbrake lever, held vertically so the side of the spanner opening butted against the back of the grip. I then whacked the spanner with a hammer against the grip to get it off.

To remove the the gaitor with the base frame you will first have undo the fixing screw that is hidden under the small clip-in tray that sits in the centre console immediately in front off the handbrake lever. The gaitor with frame can then be pulled free.

[IK200]

Howdy,

Thanks for the tips. Am gonna give it a try this weekend.

[John Z]

If you don't want your old grip you might find it easier just to cut it off.