Installing rear hatch drain kit
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Installing rear hatch drain kit
I'm thinking about installing the rear hatch window drain kit sold by Eckers on my 95 coupe but before I do, I'd like to hear from folks that have done this mod. I'd like to hear about problems if any. Cracked fiberglass, hitting any wire bundles with drill bit, etc. Do you regret doing the mod, would you do it again? Thanks for the info.
Instructor
Joined: Apr 2006
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From: Port Aransas TX
I installed mine years ago
I used a long pilot bit used in the aircraft industry and felt my way through to insure I didn't hit anything. Then I drilled a full size hole using a long bit. This allowed me to angle the drill bit correctly and keep the chuck away from the body and the glass. It's the first mod I did and yes I'd do it again, as I still have the bits in my tool collection.
Larry
Larry
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From: Maryville Tn
CI 5 thru 12 Veteran
St. Jude Donor '09 thru '23
NCM Sinkhole Donor
I wouldn't drill holes in my car. I don't drive my in the rain (unless I'm caught in it) and it's not that big of a deal to use towels to dry out that area where the water collects. The risk isn't worth it to me.
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Melting Slicks
Joined: Apr 2002
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From: Tellico Plains Tennessee
I added the drain holes in my 89 years ago and it was easy. I've had no cracking of the body nor did I hit any wiring. I'd be surprised if there's wiring that close to the body in that area, frankly. I went slow and drilled only far enough to get through the body. Put a piece of tape on the bit 1/2 inch from the tip and stop when you see the tape get near the body. In other words, DON'T go plunging the drill bit in like you're drilling for oil. 
Like many others, I don't normally drive in the rain but I got darned tired of trying to get that water out after washing the car, only to have more water appear and go sliding down the body leaving a streak. I'd do it again in a heartbeat. I must admit, though, I was scared I'd mess up. I'd suggest using a battery operated drill, they turn slower than plug in type. Go slow and think about what you're doing.
Like many others, I don't normally drive in the rain but I got darned tired of trying to get that water out after washing the car, only to have more water appear and go sliding down the body leaving a streak. I'd do it again in a heartbeat. I must admit, though, I was scared I'd mess up. I'd suggest using a battery operated drill, they turn slower than plug in type. Go slow and think about what you're doing.
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My main concern is the wire bundle issue. Does any body know for sure if there are wirebundles in the area that these drain tubes go thru? With cars I've dealt with in the past, the wire bundles are under the car.
Cruising
Joined: Feb 2006
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From: st louis mo
I did it and I would do it again. What I did was drill the the first hole stopping after breaking though the fiberglass, took a welding rod or something thin and straight made sure there was no wires drill the rest of the way down.
