Removing Lower Tailgate Trim

Gonzo,

As you've probably realised the key is to get the clips all lined up before trying to press them home. I found that it was possible to secure the top clips first, this stops the panel bouncing too much when applying pressure to the rest and if you are doing it with the tailgate lifted, it stops the panel falling on your head!
With the top clips located, use a long screwdriver or strip of metal to move the other clips slightly to get them to locate into the relevant slots before applying further pressure to secure them.

I also found that overcoming the friction to press the clips in was quite difficult, so a little vaseline on the clip to help it slide into the slot made things easier.

Remember to ensure that the emergency tailgate release strap is in the right position before securing, you don't want to have to take it off again :)

Steve
 
I know what you mean.

I have done this three times now and it doesn't get any easier with experience.

If you really have lined up all of the clips in the slots them you just have to be brave and hit hard.
It is only the last tiny bit of the clip that bites.

It is slightly easier with two people, one to hold the cover in place while the other gives the cover a healthy thump with a clenched fist but right on top of the clips.

So if you are about to give up then perhaps it is best to pas the job up someone else, but they will do exactly the same thing.

Steve B
 
I did the number plate lights a few weeks back...the inner trim was a bit of a faff, but went together on the second go, and as mentioned took quite a bit of firm thumping to get the clips to go fully home.

If your really struggling, I would suggest painting the tips of the clips with a marker paint and bringing the panel into place then, if it does not go together, on removal any clips that were wide of the mark will show up on the inside of the metal hatch near the holes they should be going into and give you a good idea on which way you need to move the clips or the panel on the next try.

Hope this helps

Nick
 
It's one of those things people who strip panels a lot this is very easy but for the majority they do seem to struggle, get them lined up and it does need a VERY VERY firm wak I think most don't won't to hit it to hard incase they break something but you won't

Phil
 
Thanks for all the replies and support guys.

In the end my 18 YO son had managed to fit it before I got home so I didn't get to put it into practice. He seems a little more "supportive" now he's driving the car!

It's bound to come off again over time so I know where to look for the next time.

Cheers

Simon
 
Gonzo said:
Thanks for all the replies and support guys.

In the end my 18 YO son had managed to fit it before I got home so I didn't get to put it into practice. He seems a little more "supportive" now he's driving the car!

It's bound to come off again over time so I know where to look for the next time.

Cheers

Simon
Click to expand...
Hi Simon,

If it is not loose now then you will probably find that it will stay stuck.

At least I hope so (Mine has)

Steve B
 
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