Try bending the top clip to increase the pressure. Yes the license plate
will be a bit below the edge of the bumper.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Eric Caron
Sent: Thursday, February 20, 2014 6:07 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: rear access hatch adjustment

Hi listers,

        This seems like a silly question but it is certainly vanagon related
so I'll go for it.

I've managed to get my rear bumper respectably straightened out.  As a
result the rear hatch that exposes the oil and coolant area now opens fully.

So first question.  What is the correct name for this little door?

Next question.  Is there a way to adjust it at all?  In my case the latch
holding it shut is acting very wimpy.  Everything seems straight and lined
up as far as I can tell.  the top of the little door matches up with the
little rubber bumpers on the van body.
  also.  the license plate seems to sit a bit low.  the bottom of the plate
is below the top edge of the bumper.  Is this normal?

I could just leave well enough alone, but what fun would that be?  I'm
looking for a way to have the small door shutt with a satisfying thunk and
act latched.

Tips are greatly appreciated.

Eric Caron
85 GL Auto