Body - Water Leaks Trunk/Tailight
84mercedes03TO: OUR MERCEDES-BENZ PASSENGER CAR DEALERS
DATE: December, 1984 REF.. NO. 97/13
SUBJECT: WATER LEAKS MODEL 201
A. Water Leak Around Taillight
Body components are the primary cause of leaks. Replacing the taillight will not remedy this condition.
FIGURE 1:
1. Remove taillight and check for damage. Replace if necessary.
2. Check body contact areas of the taillight sealing frame for uneveness and eliminate.
3. Check flange (lower arrows) in the taillight opening from above (from the trunk) for traces of water (Figure 1).
If there are traces of water, check trunk lid sealing flange (upper arrows, Figure 1). Refer to section B.
B. Water Penetrating Through the Trunk Lid Seal
1. Check trunk lid seal and replace if damaged.
2. If the seal is not damaged, check for loose seat or dirt between seal and flange.
Check if flange is bent and straighten if necessary. Apply M-B body sealant along the flange (upper arrows) and replace seal (Figure 1).
FIGURE 2:
3. If the seal is loose, lightly compress the steel insert with pliers (Figure 2).
4. Apply M-B windshield sealant to uneven spot welds on the flange.
FIGURE 3:
5. Cut out a 5 x 15 mm recess on either side of the seal (in the area of the taillights) so that water behind the seal can drain (Figure 3).
NOTE: Since July 1984 production, seals with recesses are installed.
FIGURE 4:
C. Water Penetrating at the Trunk Lid
1. Check drain holes (arrows "a") for leaks, and seal if necessary (Figure 4).
2. Check seam sealing all around the bead and reseal, if necessary.
3. Check seal contact area for damage and straighten, if required.
4. Check mounting holes of model designation plate and Mercedes star and seal if necessary.
FIGURE 5:
D. Water Penetrating at Rear Pillar Ventilation
Check water drain fitting of sliding roof for proper seat. Fit correctly and seal with M-B universal sealant.
Check whether the water drain hose for the sliding roof is mounted correctly in the fitting.