Tailgate replacement

[Mr_Orange]

The tailgate latch started to go rotten on the golf and I left it a bit too long to fix...    result is the tailgate paint has blown around the handle now....

Result was a trip to Essex for a replacement tailgate.  Came off a 52 plate V5, got it for £50 with a factory spoiler    The handle on this one was beyond salvation and tailgate required a little paint repair under the handle.

Today I handed my life savings over to VW for a new handle 1J6 827 565 B (GRU)  Needs paint.

I'm considering changing the boot over this weekend.....

Do I go for the bolts under the headlining and have to reseal the brackets?
or
Source an 8mm female XZN and tackle the wierd ass bolts on the tailgate brackets?

One last thing, anything I can apply or do to the handle and lock to stop the rot again?

Thanks!

[brewey]

I'd go under the headlining makes it a 10ish minute job. That's the way I did mine well over 2 years ago now.

[madmanmart]

I just use a 8mm ring spanner on the tailgate bolts, saves messing with the headlining.

[benmanc]

8mm ring spanner. I had same job the other week when I put my smooth boot on which didnt come woth brackets

[Mr_Orange]

Cheers!
I just tried up a 12 point socket on the hinge bolts. Looks the correct fit. Had it in mind it was some obscure vw socket thing..... :/
Are the nuts in the tailgate captive, or will there be some adjustment on the fitment?
Cant bear the thought of messing with the headlining. Recall the straight bit across the back being a pig to fit back nicely. Broke clips etc.

[benmanc]

It is meant to be a special part like a triple square or vw only tool or something but 12 point 8mm works a treat as theres paint on there to help prevent rounding and usually not too tight

[Mr_Orange]

It is meant to be a special part like a triple square or vw only tool or something but 12 point 8mm works a treat as theres paint on there to help prevent rounding and usually not too tight

Nice one

[Mr_Orange]

Tailgate is coming along nicely. Seems however that it had a respray at some point.... Found out when I debadged it as they'd masked around the badges (!?) and small amount of lacquer came away with the massive old vw badge. I'm working my magic now with a rattle can, lots of masking and some serious amounts of polishing coming up.