Pry off wheel "cap" (without damage)?

[14apex]

"Assuming" that there's access to a grease zerk under the "mag type" wheel cap ('14 Apex 22QBS) I was gonna "pop" the cap off with a screwdriver. After damaging a couple of the flimsy caps, I stopped...gotta be a better way? My previous TT had just the rubber "plug" and, again, assuming...I'm thinking that a similar plug is under the "chrome" cap(?). As usual, the detailed & useless "owners manual" only tells me that everything about the trailer may kill me, but it doesn't explain how those things actually work . ...anyone know if there's a special tool for removing these little aluminum or "pot metal" caps without damaging? Thanks!

[MR.M]

Originally Posted by 14apex

"Assuming" that there's access to a grease zerk under the "mag type" wheel cap ('14 Apex 22QBS) I was gonna "pop" the cap off with a screwdriver. After damaging a couple of the flimsy caps, I stopped...gotta be a better way? My previous TT had just the rubber "plug" and, again, assuming...I'm thinking that a similar plug is under the "chrome" cap(?). As usual, the detailed & useless "owners manual" only tells me that everything about the trailer may kill me, but it doesn't explain how those things actually work . ...anyone know if there's a special tool for removing these little aluminum or "pot metal" caps without damaging? Thanks! Attachment 214701

most are plastic and a screw driver is the only way i know how to get them off . you will see the rubber plug on the hub dust cap once you get the cheap covers off

[Bama Rambler]

A plastic putty knife or a set of trim tools will pry them off without damaging them.

[dward51]

Are you sure it actually comes off? My Freedom Express center caps are solid and I have to pull the tire to access the cover to the zerk (yes, there is another center cap over the axle nut under the wheel center cap). My caps in the wheel push out the back side of the wheel and do not come off through the front of the rim.

My 2 boat trailers have center caps with the easy to pop off rubber covers over the zerk, but not my Coachman FE.

[14apex]

Originally Posted by dward51

Are you sure it actually comes off? My Freedom Express center caps are solid and I have to pull the tire to access the cover to the zerk (yes, there is another center cap over the axle nut under the wheel center cap). My caps in the wheel push out the back side of the wheel and do not come off through the front of the rim.

My 2 boat trailers have center caps with the easy to pop off rubber covers over the zerk, but not my Coachman FE.

Yes, they do come off...but, it's probably best to remove the wheels as the little caps are so easy to damage, even when using plastic pry tools.

[KyDan]

Try back to back putty knifes and work around rather than just prying one side.

[BehindBars]

Instead of using screwdrivers as pry bars, try automotive body trim tools. They’re strong plastic, and won’t scratch or mark your work. I have a set from Harbor Freight and I’ve found many uses for them. They work great for dash board and interior trim, and might work on those hub caps.

[5picker]

Originally Posted by BehindBars

Instead of using screwdrivers as pry bars, try automotive body trim tools. They’re strong plastic, and won’t scratch or mark your work. I have a set from Harbor Freight and I’ve found many uses for them. They work great for dash board and interior trim, and might work on those hub caps.

X2
I always try to use the right tool for the job.

[mrarmyaustin]

The plastic end caps on my Rockwood Signature Ultralite have a notch for removal I use a 8" pry bar and it works great. No twisting like you have to do with a screw driver. You can purchase a cheap set that includes a 8" at Harbor Freight for $6.99 + tax.
https://www.harborfreight.com/3-piec...set-66840.html

[nayther]

Originally Posted by BehindBars

Instead of using screwdrivers as pry bars, try automotive body trim tools. They’re strong plastic, and won’t scratch or mark your work. I have a set from Harbor Freight and I’ve found many uses for them. They work great for dash board and interior trim, and might work on those hub caps.

Gotta LOVE Harbor Freight, especially for these specialty tools that you only use once in awhile. I have a more professional trim removal tool that I've had for years, made to pop off interior panels by getting in behind them, works great.

[14apex]

Great & very useful info./suggestions, folks -- much appreciated! I "thought" that I had every conceivable tool that I'd ever need...but, these HF plastic prys are gonna be excellent for this little project as well as others. Thanks!