Rear hatch weatherstrip replacement

[Sgreg]

I seem to recall someone on the Registry recently replaced their rear hatch weatherstrip. I am considering doing the work myself if it isn't too complicated. Any advice would be appreciated.

Greg, it's fairly simple.

Open the hatch. Get a broomstick or long piece of 2x4 to prop the hatch open. Take a flat blade screw driver and pull the tang out of the hatch strut on both ends.

Pull the hatch surround trim off and then you are free to start pulling the weatherstrip off. It has a tacky paste holding it in place, and can create a mess.

When installing the new piece, I recomend starting at one of the corners and working around from there. Also make sure the rubber is warm and pliable.

[Sgreg]

Thanks, Jeff. Is the old sticky stuff enough to restick the new weathershrip or do I need an adhesive ?

The new weatherstrip will have it in the groove already. You can wipe the excess of the carr with a paper towel.

[Hammer]

Greg,

I replaced mine last year with an aftermarket piece from this guy. It was a 1/4 of the GM piece and it worked very well and was pretty easy to install. Thought I would take a chance and try it for the price. There were a couple guys at the PNW Gathering that were considering replacing theirs also but I don't know if they did or not.

http://www.tld-corvette.com/products.asp?dept=918

[Sgreg]

Thanks, guys. I am ready to tackle it. Got to be easier than a plenum pull !!

[Hammer]

Originally Posted by Sgreg

Thanks, guys. I am ready to tackle it. Got to be easier than a plenum pull !!

I would think, although I haven't been initiated yet.

[evl_twn]

I replaced mine last year, it was very simple. I removed the rear trim pieces, and did as Jeff suggested by supporting the hatch while disconnecting the struts. Once the one piece weatherstrip is over the struts, you can hook them back up, then just slip the new weatherstrip into place. I ended up getting a GM part at Funfest last year to get the discount, I've heard mixed reviews on aftermarket weatherstrips. I suppose it depends on who the manufacturer is?

[4DSZR1]

Originally Posted by Hammer

Greg,

I replaced mine last year with an aftermarket piece from this guy. It was a 1/4 of the GM piece and it worked very well and was pretty easy to install. Thought I would take a chance and try it for the price. There were a couple guys at the PNW Gathering that were considering replacing theirs also but I don't know if they did or not.

http://www.tld-corvette.com/products.asp?dept=918

I was one of the guys... I will say that John's came out fantastic, and this is on my to-do list for sure. I Did the brake flush last week and hooked up a new Battery Tender last night, so I'm getting down the list.

[Sgreg]

Rear hatch weatherstrip in, no problem doing it with the good advice here. If you think your weatherstrip is great, you won't believe how high the a new one sits. Takes a serious effort to close the hatch. The seal is great. No more high pressure leaks.