leaking trunk

[Peter Engel <vze2dp8c@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Kevin,

I second John's statements -- the leak source is probably not the
seal/weatherstrip.
Take a look at the deep trough running around the trunk opening.  That
thing is a rain gutter to carry water away from the weatherstrip.  It
can handle a LOT of water if you keep the pine needles, maple spinners,
and other debris out of it.  In fact, you could probably REMOVE the
weatherstrip entirely, park the car in the rain, and not get water in
the trunk.  Severe downpours and squirting with a hose are a different
story...
The real leak source is probably at the rear window lower corners or
under the vinyl top below that.  The fiberglass insert used to reduce
the rear window opening size is another potential leak spot.  Also check
the seams where the quarter panels are joined to the panel hehind the
rear window.
With a trunk as big as your car has, finding a leak source is pretty
easy.  Just get in the trunk with a flashlight and close it up.  Have a
helper pour or spray water onto the trunk lid STARTING AT THE REAR EDGE
and work forward until the leak is revealed.  Take a towel in there with
you!
Pete in PA
70 LeBaron