i actually answered my own question by scrolling down to the earlier postings on the powdercoating issue. according to it, you have to break down the rear window to get the trim piece off.
thnx for the info on ordering the trim from bmw, i would assume however, that the estimate i got of $1.50/ ft to powdercoat will be the less expensive route.

Matt

The piece on the doors are decorative and just a cover held on by metal clips. you can get all of the pieces need from BMW already in black. you need the part numbers from the 1991 E30 318is or the E30 M3. Most pieces are relatively easy to replace. The only piece I cant figure out are the rear side windows.

Erich
1987 325es