(BODY) Removing tail light assembly
 

New to the forum and need some help. I have an 82 GSL, and I need to remove the power antenna to either replace or repair. I know the passenger side tail light assemble needs to be removed. I took the inside box off the tail light assembly, but it still feels very snug. Is it just the rubber gasket around the lens that is still holding it? I started to pull the gasket, but don't know if that is all that remains for removal. Also, is that gasket glued in? I did a search, but didn't find anything on tail light removal. Thanks for any help!

you have to remove the center rear panel first. then the tailights. Easier to remove the carpeted panel and floor jack to get to the 10mm nuts (about a dozen)

Thank you for your reply. I actually did take the inside part with the 8 or 10 nuts, off the assembly, but the whole assembly still felt very snug. Do you take the assembly out from the inside or outside of the car. My main concern is the rubber seal around between the lens and the body. I cannot tell if that is what is holding the assembly. I don't want to remove that rubber seal around the lens if I don't have to, but if I do, do you simply grab it and pull it out? Just don't want to ruin something. Thanks again!

It's easy. Just make sure the middle panel is off and then make sure you get the two side bolts close to the turn signals and slide it out. The rubber is just a weather stripping, you don't need it if you don't want it but it easily goes back on when you put the light back in

Thank you for the info! This middle panel that is being referred to, is this a panel between the left and right tail light assemblies, and if so, is it removed from the inside of the car or the outside? Sorry for sounding like a dummy here. I have had the car for 24 years, and have done virtually nothing repair wise, but from all the wonderful posts, I am starting to learn more. Thanks again!

The middle panel is held in by two more bolts on the inside. Just unbolt them and take the panel off

When the lights come out, they slide to the outboard side, then back. Reinstall the gaskets, they keep water and exhaust fumes out of the inside.

Along with the metal bracket, there are 2 nuts on the side, by the signal lights. The center panel doesn't have to come out, but it makes the task easier.

Thanks to all of you for the responses. I think I get the picture now.