Well I got the swap all ready, just need to pick up the engine/exhaust/radator/etc , problem is my hatch doesn't open....

 

Going to pick up a new plastic handle for Subaru tomorrow, can someone give me a play by play on how to replace this plastic handle??

 

THANKS,

S

crawl in the back and take it apart

I figured I would have to remove the plastic panel, however what am I going to see when I get it open, is this something I am going to need more then just a replacement handle for?

 

Sorry for being difficult, I just would like to hear from people that have done this before I rip into the rear hatch.

 

 

Thanks

Its pretty straightforward, take off the plastic hatch cover, carefully as to not break those precious plastic clips, then undo the 2 10mm nuts on the handle, and you will have to dink around with the actuator rod from the handle to the latch, but all in all its super simple.

 

-Bill

Thanks Bill

 

Got it!

One last question, would you happen to remember the way the clips want to release on the hatch (lift up, down, side, etc.)?

Thanks Bill

 

Got it!

One last question, would you happen to remember the way the clips want to release on the hatch (lift up, down, side, etc.)?

 

if you are asking about the clips that hold the cover in place, they come straight out - just need to be careful not to break them as you pull (they tend to want to snap from age) I may be able to provide a few replacements if needed since i am stripping my old wagon...

if you have one available, one of those wide panel puller things work pretty well, just be gentle.

 

Once you get the cover off, it is pretty easy to see what needs to be done. the hardest part is getting the rod unhooked from the handle - needle nose pliers and a bit of effort is required - might i suggest lubing it up with a little oil to help ease things along...I also recommend pulling the rod BEFORE you unbolt the handle...

if you do break the clips, you can pick them up at checker auto or autozone. there are like 5 bucks or something.. its been a while

 

 

-Justin

Well that was easy! I picked up a new handle from Subaru (about 30bucks) it took me less then 10 minutes to install.

 

I just pulled (literaly) the interior panel off,

 

removed two nuts holding the handle on,

 

removed the broken platic handle from the metal rod (make sure you remember which side the metal rod was on!),

 

installed the new handle,

 

pressed the metal rod into the plastic retainer on the plastic arm of the handle,

 

reinstalled the interior panel. bada bing!

 

Only thing I would add is that YOU ARE GOING TO BREAK a few of those dried up little clips that hold the interior panel on(unless someone has been rubbing them with a silicon cloth or glycerol or something lol) so plan on a trip to the autoparts store!

Edited December 26, 200916 yr by SuperchargedRS

Good Job! yeah, it isnt a hard job, just kind of a pain to crawl back there & do it! LOL

Glad you got her all fixed up!