DIY: Rear Tailgate, how to Caulk with Silicone

[cn90]

I have tried all that garbage: Volvo Tailgate kit etc. etc. There is a much better solution, read on.

I use my $4 solution, go to hardware store and buy CLEAR SILICONE Caulk (I use GE Clear Silicone Caulk), the same stuff you use to caulk your windows at home.

1. Apply a steady and even bead of caulk around the edges of the trim where it meets the glass.
View from the CABIN, Red arrows is caulk, Blue arrows show gap too large for caulk:

VolvoTailGate01.jpg (86.11 KiB) Viewed 1540 times

2. Another view from the BACK:

VolvoTailGate02.jpg (91.98 KiB) Viewed 1540 times

NOTE:
1. I have had this for 5 years, no rattling whatsoever.
2. Do this in the afternoon like 4-5PM, so the silicone can cure overnight (look at the silicone tube instructions).
3. Do not slam the Tailgate for a few days until the silicone really cure in.
4. If you ever need access to the area behind the tailgate (such as changing rear wiper motor), simply use a utility knife and gently score the silicone, taking care not to damage the glass.

That is all boys and girls!!!

[FlyingVolvo]

I've done this too, it really does help! It can be a pain though when you need it removed, that's for sure. Good write-up!

[cn90]

UPDATE:

1. Tried the rubber grommets (as suggested in another forum): does not work.

2. So I ended using the trick by "Taskmule" from volvospeed forum (drywall screw). Total = 3 screws.

I bought some 3" deck screw (for outdoor), but for the center I needed a 2" screw, so I used a 2" drywall screw I had laying around.

- Also bought some washers coated in black.

- The Plastic Trim on my Inner Door Latch is already broken from before. But you can see it has 3 tabs on the top and 2 at the bottom. If you ever pry this out, pry from the TOP for the 1998 V70.

- The "carpet" section has some backing material, easy to drill through. Just make sure the drill bit does not hit any wiring. I put a little grease on the drilled hole to prevent any rust in the future.

- Once the holes are drilled. Time to apply CLEAR silicone around the BEHIND of the edge of the Panel where it meets the glass.

- Install the Panel with 3 screws. Close the tailgate and don't open it for 12h to let the Silicone to cure.

PS: Lastly, if you want to paint it black, buy some black touch-up paint and just paint the screw head.

V70Tailgate01.JPG (64.46 KiB) Viewed 1401 times

V70Tailgate02.JPG (38.19 KiB) Viewed 1401 times

V70Tailgate03.JPG (66.91 KiB) Viewed 1401 times

[Xilikon]

I used 2 stainless metal screws with decorative grommets to hold the tailgate panel with success. Each one is screwed about in the middle of both sides (between edge and handle). Just check behind for a good metal surface close to the panel and be careful to avoid wires.