When I removed the damaged tail/brake/backup light assembly, I saw a sealant between the plastic assembly and the painted metal opening over which it fits. The sealant is to prevent water leaking behind the assembly and into the trunk.
I noticed that although it had been 20 years since assembly, the old sealant was still flexible and soft, almost a soft putty like consistency. But due to the damage, I can not re-use it. Instead I need to apply some new sealing material that will work just as well to 1) keep water out while 2) not causing a squeak due to possible friction between the light assembly and the body.
The new replacement light unit came without any included sealant or gasket, and the schematic drawing used by the Toyota parts counter shows nothing there.
Consulting with a service advisor I purchased some ordinary silicone sealant in a tube, but my concern is that this may dry too hard and not work as well as what the factory used.
I also purchased "non-hardening form-a-gasket sealant" from an auto parts store and tested that - it is a little too wet compared with the original product used by Toyota 20 years ago. That is, it seems a little TOO non-hardening.
What's the right product to use for this application?
- Don