installing rear bumper to body seal

[crxnug]

does anyone have any info on how to install a rear bumper seal 911-503-085-05-M260 on a 1984 911, mine was missing , what do i need to remove to install it, any info would be much appreciated

[Joe V]

crxnug,

The bumper will need to be removed (but you probably already know that). And you will need to remove the tail light assemblies, as I believe the portion that fits under them actually tucks into them. The bumper removal is a breeze, just be careful going back on (use tape at the rear edges of you bumper extensions or you'll chip the paint (darn!!!)). And you'll also need to remove the center reflector. Other than that, it's a piece of cake! Take lots of pics and let us know your progress.

[wjdunham]

Did some searching and not finding anything conclusive - has anyone put this rear bumper seal on without removing the center reflector., and if so, care to share the methods used? I have the bumper and signal light housings off the car, but am very concerned about getting that center reflector off in one piece. I've tried to pry a bit on the mounting clips but they really don't want to release. My car is an '85.
Thanks for any help.
Bill

[frankc]

I'm not sure about '85, but for mid-year and SCs, the rear reflector is held in via nuts on the inside of the rear panel. To get to those nuts, you will need to remove the muffler, and then the heat shield above it. None of which is difficult.

However, that said, I don't believe you need to remove the center reflector in order to remove the bumper (at least I did not on my '77). Just the four nuts holding the bumper to the impact tubes, and the four nuts attaching the bellows at the ends.

IIRC, the bumper seal is glued to the bottom of the panel that mounts the center reflector, and there is a rivet at each end near the tail lights (which is why the tail light assemblies need to be removed).

[group911@aol.co]

The seal has adhesive that goes in behind the center reflector so technically, you need to remove the reflector to install properly.
To avoid destroying the center reflector, I usually pull the heat shield from the back and carefully pry the alligator clips away from the reflector studs until it comes out freely. Patience is helpful.
I think the reflector is NLA??

[wjdunham]

Thanks guys. What is the best way to pry off those clips. I have the heat shield off but not the muffler. I can get my hand in there but visibility is an issue with the muffler on. I don't care if I destroy the clips as they are available from Sierra Madre. Just want to make sure I don't mess up the plastic reflector.
I've tried a thin flat screwdriver to pry between the clip and the plastic, but not having much luck getting them to release.
Bill