Bumper paint prep - should I disassemble?

[Phoenix127]

I have an almost perfect rear bumper for a 1994 E420 which I need to color change to Midnight Blue or rather the appropriate lighter cladding color.

There are several components to the bumper. Is it wise to try and disassemble these parts? I am concerned about breaking rare plastic but would like to get the paint work right.

Thoughts?

 

[sheward]

There is almost no risk of damaging anything in the process of disassembly. The impact strip has many plastic ears which disengage easily as well as three screws on either end. The stainless trim is held on with metal clips which are very durable and easily pried off. I used a piece of 1x2 wood as a strut to tie the ends of the bumper together to prevent excessive twisting both before and after the bumper is painted.