Technical Fiat Croma Keyfob Separating the Housing

[cromaamore65]

Hi Folks
I am looking for advice on how to separate my old key fob housing so as to be able to insert the innards into my new replacement housing (when it arrives).
I read with interest a previous thread that ran from 2013 to 2018 where the subject matter was touched on but not fully explained.
BrianMcL was the last person to post on the thread back in Feb 18.
As I don't wish to ruin the new housing through ignorance I would like some info on how to separate the key fob and also how to get the new key shaved down to fit in the key slot.

For reference I acquired the new key fob from a source in Germany at a cost of around £18 including pp and I don't think that he had many left, are they getting rare?
Your help would be most appreciated
Regards

 

[g8rpi]

Hi @cromaamore65
The key case splits along the midline of the narrow edge. The button side fits over the back so you need to get in the gap and lift that edge up. Obviously remove the battery holder first. The best tool I've found for separating this type of join is a guitar pick. you can get a pack of various sizes cheap on ebay or amazon.
I'd wait until the new one arrives and study it to see how it goes together and what the quality is like.
I've been thinking of getting one of these so will be interested in how you get on.
Cromas are rare in the UK (only 500 on the road now) but plety in europe so should still be able to get covers. Some Chinese sellers have them too.

HTH,
Robrt G8RPI.

 

[cromaamore65]

Thanks for the info, it's much appreciated. Cheers