How to: Remove rubber around the gas flap

[jmackro]

All that said, it is amazing how predictably parts fit on new cars compared to our old ones. Panel alignment windows, gaskets, etc. are all so much more precise now.

Yea, new cars are built with automation and measured by lasers. Older cars - especially the low-production models like the e9 - were just hammered together. Also, reproduction parts seldom fit well (or last very long). The problem is especially acute with rubber seals and gaskets, which tend to be off dimensionally and be harder than the originals.