Today I actually got round to installing some goodies to the FL2, and discovered some rust too, which needed treatment.
So what were the goodies I installed I hear you ask.
I fitted a rear spoiler to the tail door, and the later tail door handle, complete with a new release button and LED numberplate lights.
First off I needed the temperature to increase, as the spoiler is stuck on with double sided 3M body tape, which needs to be warm to stick properly.
While waiting for the day to warm up, I set about removing the original tail door handle, which I think is about the most ugly design imaginable.
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First off the interior trim needs removing, which is literally 2 screws and 6 pop studs, and it's off.
The original handle is held on by 6 nuts, which are threaded onto matching studs sticking out the body side of the handle.
Once removed the handle just lifted off, revealing rust where it touches the bodywork.
View attachment 261588 A bit of a clean up was needed, then the rust was treated, and the affected area was painted in Bonda primer.
View attachment 261587
I then had to mark out the holes for the longer handle, drilling 8mm holes where needed, and painted the drilled edges to prevent future rust.
The handle was then fitted, along with the new LED numberplate lights, and new release switch assembly.
I then cleaned the boot top with IP and stuck the spoiler on to the cleaned surface, making sure it was as carefully aligned as possible.
View attachment 261586
I think it looks loads better than before, and because the longer handle is secured with more bolts, it feels much better to open.
I also took the opportunity to install a couple of sound deadening pads to the boot panel, before refitting the boot interior trim.
View attachment 261589
Of course now that's all done, it means I've no excuses to do the Haldex and rear diff service tomorrow.
I also plan to fit a new air filter, and a new MAF,ias I'm sure it must be at the end of its life after 120k miles.
