I actually ground mine out, using a flex (angle grinder I think it is
called).

these are strange little items, tat rust like crazy and make the luggage
rack look like crap inside.  I found stainless steel bolts and nuts and
washers which fit perfectly for installing the new tie down cleat things...
but the  loops themselves are not rustproof.  I am thinking of taking mine
all apart (again) and painting them with POR-15 to keep them from rusting.
I have had good luck with this on other areas... and the hardware would
actually look pretty cool in black!

Good luck.

See ya on the list!

RSF

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<�)))>{   <�)))>{   <�)))>{   <�)))>{   <�)))>{   <�)))>{

Robert S. Fish
Salzburg, Austria
1987 Wolfsburg Vanagon 2.1 GL Weekender
1987 Golf Cabriolet
1991 Golf