Round Tail Light Housing Question

[2002#3]

Do <1973 2002's have any type of seal(er) between the 4-bulb tail light housing and the inner rear body/trunk panel?  I am reasonably sure the answer is "No".  I do not recall one in my '73 I had for 34 years.  However, I ask b/c my current project '70 2002 has had at some point in its history black sealant/goop (see photo) applied between these two components.  The only seal I know in that area is the thick rubbery gasket between the chrome rim and the lens.

Thanks,

Larry

 

[Mike Self]

Larry, you're correct.  The only seal on a roundie tail light housing is the light grey rubber seal that fits into the outer chrome ring and (is supposed to) form a tight seal with the body.  No inner gasket or seal--at least by the factory.

 

My suspicion is that a PO discovered a leak around the tail light--either due to dinged and repaired sheet metal or a perished gasket--and rather than buying the factory gasket, just gooped it up on the inside.

 

mike

[2002#3]

Thanks, Mike.

Exactly as I suspected, and you are correct:  the back panel is a long way from being smooth and even.  Still, and as always, it is fun to work on an '02 that needs additional love.

Larry