1st Generation Specific (1979-1985) 1979-1985 Discussion including performance modifications and technical support sections

FB Rear Bumper Attachement

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Old Nov 24, 2025 | 10:07 AM
  #1  
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FB Rear Bumper Attachement

Hey fellas, does anyone on here know how these bumpers were attached at the factory? This also apples to the front but it is the rear bumpers that tend to not sit nice and tight against the rear quarter. I believe there was some sort of adhesive strip from factory but 10 years now after my resto I have had no success. I've tried epoxies, dbl sided tape and I think panel bond but eventually they all end up giving way. It must be the shear velocity of the 13b overwhelming the adhesive...lol.....but seriously anyone know how, where or what works to keep the ends tucked in tight? All my hardware is there. Only thing would be that adhesive strip I sanded off in order to paint it. Thanks




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Old Nov 24, 2025 | 11:22 AM
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You could maybe hit with a heat gun to warp it to hold closer instead of using an adhesive. Not a body guy but thats my first thought on it.
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Old Nov 24, 2025 | 11:58 AM
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There is supposed to be an air gap. If it was close to the quarter panel, it could damage the paint and cause premature rust.
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Old Nov 24, 2025 | 02:50 PM
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100% normal.
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Old Nov 24, 2025 | 03:18 PM
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From the factory there is also some PPF in that area.
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Old Nov 24, 2025 | 03:22 PM
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These cars have bumper shocks at both ends. The gap is there to allow the front and rear bumper to compress against the fender/quarter panel in a low speed impact.
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Old Nov 25, 2025 | 02:31 PM
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Originally Posted by t_g_farrell
You could maybe hit with a heat gun to warp it to hold closer instead of using an adhesive. Not a body guy but thats my first thought on it.

Not a bad idea at least in moderation, thanks
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Old Nov 25, 2025 | 02:32 PM
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Originally Posted by peejay
There is supposed to be an air gap. If it was close to the quarter panel, it could damage the paint and cause premature rust.
No it was factory attached. The adhesive strip must have sealed out any moisture.
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Old Nov 25, 2025 | 02:36 PM
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Originally Posted by KansasCityREPU
From the factory there is also some PPF in that area.
So that was the adhesive strip I removed during sanding? That makes sense. Maybe mine have pulled away over time and some reshaping with heat is all I need. Thanks
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Old Nov 25, 2025 | 04:59 PM
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Originally Posted by slvrghst
So that was the adhesive strip I removed during sanding? That makes sense. Maybe mine have pulled away over time and some reshaping with heat is all I need. Thanks
yep - they turn yellow and crack.

The bumper has some clips on each end.

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Old Dec 1, 2025 | 11:55 AM
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On a similar note, those screws #50036 get eaten by galvanic corrosion since they screw into the aluminum support. I imagine most of the others do as well. Aluminum and steel aren't friends.
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