951 Rear Hatch Issues

[johnmc111]

I recently purchased an 86 951 and have an issue with the rear hatch not staying closed. Hit a bump an instant air brake. It looks like the PO installed new rear hatch struts which is probably contributing to the problem. I could just unhook them but I would like a more elegant solution. Any ideas on how to adjust the latches to hold tighter? Should I buy new or used latches? Should I replace the new struts with some used ones? Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks - John

[Toast54]

Back the jam nut (13mm I think) off the hatch pins on both sides, rotate clockwise to bring them down, probably a thread or two at a time .Make sure the latches are lubricated and centered as best you can on the pins. I took calipers and measured where the pins enter the latches which required a lot of kneeling and it still took several tries. Eventually got them to seat. Now if I could just start it

[Toast54]

You might also look at replacing the hatch pin seats. I replaced mine some years ago when the hatch was rattling a bit. They are available separately from the latching assy. Google "hatch pin seats"

[johnmc111]

@toast54 Thanks for the suggestions!

[bumflick]

Also might need to adjust the locks where the pins go. There are two bolts that hold each lock in place.. from inside the trunk, loosen the bolts, close the hatch and jiggle the locks to ensure they are properly seated on the pins, then tighten.

[mhariush]

Watch out for popping hatches. I once lost the glass on a 924 I was towing.

[944 Ecology]

Originally Posted by mhariush

Watch out for popping hatches. I once lost the glass on a 924 I was towing.

That, among other reasons, is why you don't tow these cars backwards, even on a flatbed or trailer.

[johnmc111]

Thanks for all the advice! After messing with the hatch pins for an hour or so with no luck I was pretty frustrated. Then I realized the power release, which didn't work anyway, was not allowing the latches to close completely. Once I disconnected it, no more instant air brake! Looking forward to getting more advice in the future.

[Jfrahm]

I do not recall the trick, was it to use worn out hood struts on the hatch? So it'd stay up but not pop up? Supposed to be good for not pulling the frame away from the glass also.

I do suggest avoiding overly enthusiastic struts on the hatch.