I am about to paint my 81 and need to remove the tail lights. i have taken the nuts off and they still wont came off. I think the rubber gaskets are acting like glue and I have tried tapping lightly with a hammer. After the metal box on the back comes off isn't it just supposed to push out the back? And it the gaskets are acting like glue what can I do to free them because I see they are no longer available at Masda matrix.

 

remember there are 2 more that are not hooked up to the metal on the tail lights. and you will have to push on the inside with alittle force. i had to do that with mine after being on for 4-5 years

 

the two nuts that do not secure the metal retaining box are located on the far side of the tail light housing where the turn signal is located. once those are out you gently push the tail light from the inside of the hatch area and the light will come out. be careful as the seal will stick to the body. you do not want to tear that seal. they are no longer available new and i'm not sure that any company makes them aftermarket.