| SUBJECT:
REAR HATCH (LIFT GATE) NOISE | No: TSB-01-42A-010 |
| DATE: August, 2001 | |
| MODEL: 1997-2002 Montero Sport |
PURPOSE
The bulletin contains instructions for eliminating a popping noise from the rear hatch area of the vehicle.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Customers may report a popping noise at the rear of the vehicle. This noise typically occurs when driving over small bumps at 10 to 15 mph, making a turn, upon acceleration, or when the liftgate (hatch) strut ball joint is stressed.
AFFECTED VEHICLES
1997-2002 Montero Sport
PROCEDURE
To reduce or eliminate the rear lift gate/hatch popping noise, follow the steps below:
1. Lift Gate Hinge Adjustment: Loosen one side of the hinge bolts slightly, then close and open the rear hatch several time. Retighten the hinge bolts and repeat this step on the hinge on the other side of the hatch. Close and open the hatch several times to ensure that closing and opening effort is satisfactory.
 | 2. Lift Gate Damper Adjustment: Loosen the lift gate (hatch) damper bolts on both sides. Rotate each damper so it rests on the “C”-shaped bracket when the hatch is closed. The dampers can be rotated either upward or downward, so they will have good contact with the brackets.
NOTE: The damper and “C” bracket contact can be viewed through the body seam when the rear hatch is closed. |
 | 3. LIft Gate Striker Adjustment:
•Adjust the lift gate striker by loosening the bolts and moving the striker toward the front of the vehicle then retightening the bolts. Make sure the lift gate latches securely and has a tight fit against the body and weatherstrip. •Open and close the lift gate several times to make sure it latches properly and that opening and closing effort is satisfactory. •Readjust if the lift gate does not open or close easily, but again, check to make sure the hatch closes tightly and securely. |
4. Test drive the vehicle in a manner to duplicate the condition where the noise was previously identified to make sure the noise is reduced. Repeat the above steps, if necessary, until the noise is eliminated.
WARRANTY INFORMATION
| Rear Hatch Alignment/Adjustment | |
| Nature Code: 802 | Cause Code: 490 |
| Labor Operation No. 42431091 | Time Allowance: 0.4 hr. |
| Warranty Coverage: 36 months/36,000 miles. | |
| Special Warranty Information: Normal warranty procedures apply. | |
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