Hello All:

I need to remove the interior trim around the tailgate window on my '92 245 to repair my defroster grid, which currently only heats the top two lines. I gave it a quick look, but it wasn't immediately obvious how to get it off and I don't want to pry on it and break it. Can anybody provide me with some insight into this? The weather here is cooling down and it won't be long before the defroster is essential equipment again...

Thanks!

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Herb Goltz, London, Ontario, Canada '92 245 w/109K mi

Sorry about blank message...clicked too soon.

Remove the two screws that hold the plastic cover for the interior hatch opener, after you have pryed (gently) the plastic "T" cover off the handle.

Take a long flat screw driver and gently wedge between the panel and hatch (carefully, so as not to scratch the paint). Gently feel, with the screw driver, along the edge till you feel the plastic hold in button. Position the flat edge of the screw driver against the plastic button and gently pry off. They pop out with a dull sharp "pop". I keep saying "gently " because the panel is just a pressed carboard typ material, and you can damage the slotted holes the buttons fit in. The buttons have collars around them, so if you can feel the difference, try to get the tip of the screwdriver under that.

If you have ever taken off a door panel, it's the same idea.

But wait, to repair the heating grid, doesn't one just work on the grid itself, while attached to the rear window ? I thought there was a special type of metalic adhesive or such that you simply ran a new bead of the stuff, over the old lines.

If the top lines are working...you have juice getting to the grid, but not continuing along the entire grid.

Keep the board posted on your project.

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84, 242GLTi, 167K, 4+OD, in rehab; 89, 245 DL, 270K, M 47, daily driver; 93, 245, auto, 167K ; and other toys.

Hi:

Thanks for the response-- actually, I need to get the interior plastic frame around the window off to see if the damage to the grid is around the outer edges-- I have examined the exposed portion of the grid quite carefully, but I cannot see any problems there. I am wondering if the plastic frame has rubbed against the grid, causing an open circuit below the top two horizontal elements.

I was planning on using a Permatex conductive epoxy product to repair the grid, if possible...

Any idea how to get the frame off?

Thanks!
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Herb Goltz, London, Ontario, Canada '92 245 w/109K mi

Sort of.....I removed the balck plastic trim from my 90, 245. However, the rear window was not in place....busted. There are metal finger like clips that attach to the plastic and to the frame of the hatch. You will see, at the top center a small bit which overlaps the plastic frame. Carefully slide it to one side to expose the break between the two halfs. Carefully (with a flat screw driver) work you way to the first clip. Be real careful so as not to break the plastic. I forget just how I pryed, but the clips had a tendence to take off (watch your eyes). It took a bit, but they did come off. You'll see that they also, seperate from the third brake light. May be easier if you remove as much of that, as you can.

Again, let everyone know how it goes.

--
84, 242GLTi, 167K, 4+OD, in rehab; 89, 245 DL, 270K, M 47, daily driver; 93, 245, auto, 167K ; and other toys.