Tailgate Wiring

[Guest Paul Collins]

I've just removed one end of the wiring boot on the tailgate hinge (and broken it!) and found six wires damaged, except the one I was hoping for. :(

 

How did you repair the wiring, is there a kit?

 

If anyone replaced sections, did you buy new connectors or solder and heatshrink?

 

Looks like I've got an enjoyable Saturday afternoon!

 

Paul

[Ivor_E_Tower]

I stand to be corrected but I don't think that there is a kit - even if there is, it will be cheaper for you to fix it without.

Probably best to use soldering iron and sleeving, if you can run an iron to the car (extension lead or a gas-powered one) - also try to use cable that is designed to be flexed and be sure it has the correct current rating.

Not yet done a tailgate repair but have done door cable repairs on another car and also dishwasher door-lead repairs!

[Guest SA Intruder]

Use Raychem solder sleeves.

 

These require a proper heatgun to be used effectively.

 

They are small enough to allow the loom to stay reasonably flexible.

 

If you can't get them, use a lay on solder joint and very short lengths of heatshrink. You don't want either a bulbous joint, nor an inflexible one.

 

With patience, you can sort.

[Denis]

I soldered mine and used some heat shrink tubing. As mentioned in a previous thread, I was surprised how rigid some of the wiring in the loom was. And I have been wondering if the foam lagging which has gone all runny in mine, has been affecting the pvc insulation on the wires, making it harden?

[Ivor_E_Tower]

err sorry - the implication in my response was that you shouldn't just remake the joint. but run a new length of wire through the "gap" from body to tailgate.

Heat (from the sun) shouldn't make that much difference - what about the cars that are sold/used in Southern Spain, where ambient temp is much higher than in UK?