So, you’re looking to remove the spoiler from your Mercedes Sprinter ambulance? Whether you’re converting it for personal use, installing roof racks, or simply prefer a cleaner look, removing the factory spoiler is a straightforward DIY job. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring a smooth and damage-free removal.
Removing the spoiler on a 2016 Mercedes Sprinter ambulance, or similar models, primarily involves detaching it from the roof. The spoiler is typically secured with bolts and a strong silicone adhesive. Patience and careful technique are key, especially when dealing with the adhesive to avoid damaging your van’s paintwork.
Tools You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these essential tools:
- Socket wrench with appropriate sockets (check your Sprinter’s bolt size, likely metric)
- Long, thin retractable knife or utility knife with a new blade
- Silicone sealant remover (optional, but helpful)
- Plastic wedges or trim removal tools
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
- Tape (electrical tape or similar)
- Suitable grommet plug to seal the wiring hole (measure the hole beforehand)
- Silicone sealant for resealing bolt holes
Step-by-Step Spoiler Removal
Follow these steps to safely remove your Sprinter ambulance spoiler:
1. Preparation and Safety
- Safety First: Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect your eyes and hands.
- Clean the Area: Clean around the spoiler and the roof area where you’ll be working. This will prevent dirt and debris from scratching your paint.
- Inspect: Examine the spoiler and how it’s attached. Locate the bolts that need to be removed.
2. Removing the Bolts
- Locate Bolts: Identify the bolt locations. They are usually found underneath plastic caps or covers on the spoiler itself.
- Unscrew: Use your socket wrench to carefully remove all the bolts securing the spoiler. Keep the bolts in a safe place as you may need them later to seal the holes.
3. Cutting the Silicone Adhesive
- The Tricky Part: The spoiler is likely held down by a significant amount of silicone adhesive. This is the most time-consuming part of the removal.
- Carefully Cut: Using your long, thin knife blade, gently slide it between the spoiler and the van’s roof. Start at one edge and begin sawing through the silicone. Work slowly and patiently.
- Work Around: Continue cutting around the entire perimeter of the spoiler where it meets the roof. Apply steady, even pressure to the knife.
- Plastic Wedges (Optional): As you cut, you can use plastic wedges to gently create small gaps between the spoiler and the roof. This can help you see where you still need to cut and prevent the spoiler from re-adhering. Caution: Avoid using metal tools or wedging too forcefully, as this can easily dent the roof.
4. Wire Management
- Disconnect Wires: Once the spoiler is loose, carefully lift it slightly and locate any wiring connected to it (e.g., for spotlights or lights). Disconnect these wires.
- Identify and Tape: If you have wires for features like spotlights that you might want to reuse in the future, identify them and tape off the ends with electrical tape to protect them and prevent short circuits. Cut off any redundant wires that are no longer needed.
5. Sealing Bolt Holes and Wiring Hole
- Bolt Holes: After removing the spoiler, you’ll be left with bolt holes. To prevent water ingress and rust, reseal these. A simple method is to reinsert the original bolts and apply a small amount of silicone sealant around each bolt head before tightening them.
- Wiring Hole: There will be a larger hole in the roof where the spoiler wiring entered. You’ll need to seal this properly. Find a grommet plug of the correct size (measure the hole) and install it to create a watertight seal. These are readily available online or at auto parts stores.
6. Addressing the Rear Tail Light Issue
- Top Tail Light: Be aware that removing the spoiler might affect your rear top tail light, as some spoilers incorporate a tail light.
- Check and Replace: After removal, check if your original top tail light still functions. In some cases, like the original author mentioned, you might find that the original housing is empty. If so, you’ll need to source a replacement LED light strip or complete tail light assembly from a parts supplier or wrecker to ensure road legality and safety.
Conclusion
Removing your Mercedes Sprinter ambulance spoiler is a manageable DIY task that can significantly change the look of your van and open up possibilities for roof modifications. By taking your time, being careful with the adhesive, and properly sealing any holes, you can achieve a clean, professional result. This modification is a great step whether you are preparing your 2016 Mercedes Sprinter Ambulance For Sale or customizing it for your own adventures. Remember to address the tail light issue and enjoy your spoiler-free Sprinter!
