Help! How do I remove the tailight assembly in an 89 coupe? I dropped a screw driver into the frame behind the taillights and cant get to it. Also info might be helpful if I need to change a bulb.

Thanks

 

When I lose tools like this, I just make a couple of quick starts and stops. If that's not an option, it's far easier to access the bulbs with the bumper off - or with the sides disconnected because you can then flex it back somewhat (and if you want to remove the assemblys, I'd recommend this). If you take you're time, it's not that difficult. However, if you think your screwdriver is on the tank, then remove the gas lid door and the rubber boot. If it's resting on something close to the inner lights, you might be able to find it by removing the license plate and backup lights and going at it from the side. Otherwise, you're going to have to poke around from underneath. It's a kinda of a touchy/feely operation (as far as changing the bulbs are concerned), but I did manage it once.

 

If it helps, I changed the tail light bulbs on my '88 by removing the license plate and reachng in, it isn't easy, expect some scraped forearms.

As far as the screwdriver, do you have a magnetic "pick-up" tool. They are sold at any auto parts store. Get it and reach from underneath.

 

Thanks for the advice!. I agree it would probably be easier to move or remove the bumper assembly. How do you go about it and is there a place on-line with diagrams? I need to get a service maual at some point. Again- much thanks!

 

Personally I would leave removing the bumper as a last-and I mean last resort. The mechanics magnet would definetly be my choice-and there invaluable as far as the tool box goes. The tail lights are a PIA, don't ask me how I know-skinny arms is certainly an advantage and patience being the other. Good luck.

 

I'll give you my experience with this and hopefully it'll shed some light. If you dropped a tool behind the bumper in the area of the back of the taillights it's nearly impossible to retrieve especially small items. I said nearly impossible. There is a recess above the impact bar assembly that has consumed at least one of my 10mm sockets. The part must have slid down further into the recess. The socket is cheap and easily replaceable. Removing the bumper is the last thing anyone should do unless replacing or repainting the entire bumper. Don't do it for the sake of a tool, write it off. Removal of the taillights is done primarily for bulb replacement, or IMO, the removal of the antenna assembly. Also adding an accesorry like a wing may require removing the taillights. Removing the license plate, the backup light assemblies, the nuts that hold the bumper to the body directly behind the licence plate, and the screws attaching the lower bottom edge of the bumper effectively lets the bumper flex so you can reach in and remove the inner taillights 10mm screws. After removing the inboard taillight, reach into the hole and remove the outboard taillight assembly screws. Once the taillights are removed you can try to retrieve your tool with a magnetic tool. If you can't get it, forget it. You'll be more frustrated removing and installing the bumper than an entire set of Craftsmen screwdrivers, and then some, are worth.

Art

 

I forgot to add. Replace your taillight bulbs while you're at it. No sense in doing this twice.

Art