T-Series Removing Rear Hatch - tight screws!!

[sultanoswing]

I need to replace the upper/inner rubber seal of the hatch on my 71 GT (requires getting the hatch off).

Problem is, I can't undo the two large screws each side which hold the hatch on. I do have a size 3 Pozidrive impact bit and impact driver, but still can't seem to loosen the suckers.

Am I using the impact driver correctly? In the words Dr. Venkman, "Well I think so."

I've also tried taking the hatch off by removing the 3 bolts each side which attach the hinge itself to the roof - but no go, as I can't quite get the hinge off over the bolts.

Any thoughts? Do I need to take the car to a panel shop for a drill out?

 

[Bruce74B]

Kroil (or Blaster), heat, more Kroil, impact driver. Try letting the Kroil soak overnight. I think one problem might be that you can't strike the impact driver with enough force without being rightfully concerned about denting the panel. Another problem might be caused by paint, wax or other materials sealing the screw in place...braze or dremil it clean, then put a drop of stripper on the screw and rinse with acetone to unseal so the Kroil can penetrate around the screw and have paitience with it. If that fails, check with your local shop and see if they have an air hammer that will accept your pozidrive bit and have a go at it with a real tool, but be prepared to have the anchors cut out and replaced.

Or, let it leak? Nice cars!

Good luck!

Bruce