Re: Rocker Panel Removal and Detail.
After a wash, and a polish I reinstalled the rocker panel. I had to buy three new clips to replace the broken ones, rather than have to order three more when I did the other side, I purchased six clips. That was a smart move as I had to remove the panel again to put the seal that goes against the door sill on the correct way up, this resulted in three more clips being broken. I think I rotated the panel too far clearing the fixed screws that locate the pucks.
There is a rubber seal that is in front of the door between the fender and the body of the car. I poked my finger behind it and there was a lot of debris, small twigs, leaves and dirt. my car does not stay out in the open too much so anyone whose car is outside would be well advised to clean this area out with a hose to prevent rust being cause by this debris.
Anyone thinking of taking off a rocker panel and expecting to put it back the same day should get spare clips. The part number is 5101311AA (Mercedes #A 170 988 08 78) , they are available singly or in packs of five, mine were $4.00 net (list price $4.85) each.
With no clips as spares I doubt I will be taking the other side off any time soon as they were not really dirty inside or out and frankly it is a bit of a pain in the ar$e.