Tailgate Removal and Installation

REMOVAL

PROCEDURE

1. Remove the tailgate trim panel. Refer to the subsection Tailgate Trim Panel Removal and Installation.

2. Disconnect the rear window heater and wiper connectors. Disconnect the vacuum hose of the central locking and the rear window washer hose.

3. Open the tailgate and support it with a prop.

4. Disconnect the upper gas strut –2–. To do this, carefully lift the retaining clip –1– with a screwdriver and remove the strut from the ball stud.

5. Mark the position of the tailgate at hinge –2–. To do this, outline the hinge mounting bolts with a felt-tip marker.

6. Unscrew the hinge mounting bolts –1– on the tailgate (hinge side), left and right.

7. Remove the tailgate with the help of an assistant. INSTALLATION

PROCEDURE

1. With the help of an assistant, position the tailgate in place.

2. Install bolts –1– but do not tighten them yet.

3. Close the tailgate.

4. Adjust the tailgate position by moving it along the previously made marks. Tighten the mounting bolts to 20 N·m. If a new tailgate is installed, its position must be adjusted. Refer to the subsection Tailgate Adjustment.

5. Install the gas strut on the ball stud and secure it with the retaining clip. Make sure it is correctly positioned. Connect the strut to the body. Refer to the illustration.

6. Connect the rear window heater and washer connectors. Install the vacuum hose of the central locking and the washer hose.

7. Check the operation of the central locking and the washer.

8. Install the tailgate trim panel. Refer to the subsection Tailgate Trim Panel Removal and Installation.