i finally have a chance to paint my rear hatch this easter. two scenarios as to where I paint it. one requires removal of the hatch (i have no garage) but benefit is its in the confines of my yard and close to the fridge the other is in a friends garage. so just wondering how easy/hard is it to remove the rear hatch. i could remove it, paint it in my yard, and put it back on later that day. couldnt find a thread on it.
you have to drop the rear part of the headlining down and there is 2 12mm nuts for each hinge and the 12mm on the gas struts, but before you undo those check to see if there is a connecter that you can unplug for the wiring and the washer tube (I dont remember as last time I just cut the wires) I do know its heavy and it will take 2 people to lift it without scratching anything.
i managed to do it by myself, it was hard to put the 2nd strut back on but it can be done with some patience by yourself
Don't forget that the struts have to be unbolted while the hatch is up - I heard of someone unbolting them from inside the car (hatch down / struts pressurised!.. ). Lifting off the car & replacing will be a good workout if you're doing it without help!
ahh sweet so its jsut a few bolts. whats this headlining thing? the interior trim up the top of the hatch near the roof? or do you get at it from outside?
yes take struts off first... i didnt the first time and it shot backwards like a bullet lol... you want a 2nd person there.. its bit and its heavy... remember you will have wiring for the wiper and 3rd brake light to disconnect too...
Three people is even better - 2 to lift - one to check everything is disconnected when doing it - make sure it is ajar before lifting it off - use some polystyrene/ foam to prevent locking - that glass makes it heavy (I lost 15 kg by going to a tub) The connectors (wiring) are under the plastic skins Everything else is covered
remove the plastic trims around the hatch and disconnect the wiring loom to the 3rd light. wiper window heater. the loom will then pull out of the top of the hatch where the two rubber boots are. then support the tailgate and undo the 2 struts from the tailgate. lower the tailgate back down and inside the car remove the rubber strip on the top of the roof (back edge) you will then be able to get a spanner or small ratch and socket in to under the 4 nuts. then lift it off. when refitting it GET a friend to help or else you risk damaging the new paint when refitting it. hope this helps mate.
