Gasket around license plate area

[fhall1]

dshow - thanks for the TSB number...

I took my 03 TB in (only 23,300 miles on it) because the fan clutch went kaflooey and had to be replaced...I told them as long as it was in the shop to please look at the gasket and gave them the TSB number. So, they replaced the gasket at the same time...we'll see how long it lasts.

[stradi_various]

Originally Posted by dshow

I have an '03 TB that the rubber basket around the piece that holds the rear license plate keeps getting sucked in behind it. It has been replaced twice by the dealer and the third one is starting to go....
(I have notice many other TB's with this problem)

Is there a fix for this? What happens when it is no longer under warranty?

Apparently the reason the seal around the license plate pocket gets sucked in is thermal expansion. The lift gate is metal while the pocket is plastic. Temperature variations make the two materials to expand/contract differently, therefore relative movement between them. Without the gasket, the two would rub against each other and ruin the paint. Your best bet is to get used to changing the seal from time to time. I have just changed mine (not a big deal). Paid CND20 for the seal and spent about an hour to replace it.

[dshow]

Please give us instruction on how to replace it and the p/n of the gasket (its probably on the TSB, but I can't find it anymore...) Thanks.

[stradi_various]

Originally Posted by dshow

Please give us instruction on how to replace it and the p/n of the gasket (its probably on the TSB, but I can't find it anymore...) Thanks.

ok...let's see how good a memory I have...

I do not have the part number; I just called a Chevy dealer and asked if they had the rubber gasket around the licence plate pocket in stock and then went and picked it up from them (paid cnd20).

Follow the following steps:

1. Remove the top interior plastic trim around the lift glass by gently pulling to undo the snap clamps. I understand that there is actually a specialized tool to help you with that, but it's probably not worth the money.

2. Do the same with the bottom one, going around the edge. Dont; worry if some of the clamps come off. It's easy to put them back after.

3. There is also a push pin adjacent to the lift glass latch. Put your index finger inside the latch and push the pin out. You should be able to remove the bottom trim as well.

4. With the gate open, look up around the latching mechanism. You will see five (if I recall corectly) galvanized bolts. They are attaching the pocket to the gate. Unscrew the nuts first. There is also a plastic clamp attaching the actuating rod to the rear gate handle (the one you pull up onto to lift the gate). Remove this clamp before closing the gate and removing the pocket. Please note that once the gate is locked, you will have to unlock it from inside (through the lift glass) or better yet stick something to prevent it from closing.

4.1 Note also that there is a plastic sheet behind the handle, likely to prevent water to get into the latching mechanism. You will have to bend it to access the screws. Do not forget to place it back in the initial position.

5. Before removing the seal, mark the ends of it on the pocket, so you do not have to play with the new one to install it simmetrically. Remove the old seal and install the new one, wrapping it around the pocket.

6. Follow the steps in reverse order to put your car back together :-)


Hope this helps! Let me know how it went!

Cheers!