[PCH]

Having seen few really bad cases of the factory hatch release failure due to the combination of environmental conditions (usually it is the temperature, ozone and exhaust fumes that with time become lethal to the rubber cover), I decided to come up with the solution based on a generic momentary switch.
Here are the recent pictures posted by xB owners that experienced this problem:





Sticky release button is not only unpleasant, but may also prevent locking of the hatch since the switch will be slow to return to the OFF position. All that makes the release work is a momentary ON–(OFF) switch that controls the electric actuator. Any kind of reliable waterproof button will do the job as long as it can be fitted into the stock opening. To hold that button I fabricated a simple plate that could be bolted to the hatch garnish instead of the factory release:





Once the wires are connected and contacts have been waterproofed with silicone, the new switch assembly is installed:





Now all that needs to be done is cutting off of the old factory release and connecting the wires to the new button. The plate that holds the button can be cut out of metal or plastic. Another version fabricated out of aluminum angle:



Removal of the hatch garnish assembly holding the release switch is fairly simple: pull the clips holding the inside trim board, unplug two wire connectors and unscrew the three nuts. Factory manual for reference:
http://scionlife.org/Scion_Docs/2004...eplacement.pdf
http://scionlife.org/Scion_Docs/2004...r/conponen.pdf

[bbszero]

Do you ever sleep Victor? Another great idea!

[ToyBox_02]

I have to say, this is the best damn mod ever. Way better then having the stock oem hatch button.

[ScottyTuned]

So sick. I love it. You have my mind racing with fun ideas now.

[ToyBox_02]

I will be ordering the chrome hatch handle cover to see how it looks with the chrome finger handle.

[PCH]

Originally Posted by bbszero

Do you ever sleep Victor? Another great idea!

Sleeping is my favorite thing to do I had this mod in mind for a long time- just never had the need to do it. Only got motivated after Marcel mentioned he had that problem.

Originally Posted by ToyBox_02

I have to say, this is the best damn mod ever. Way better then having the stock oem hatch button.

Because upgrade...

Originally Posted by ScottyTuned

So sick. I love it. You have my mind racing with fun ideas now.

I know the feeling! Are you gonna do something like that in the bumper, since your hatch is JDM?

Originally Posted by ToyBox_02

I will be ordering the chrome hatch handle cover to see how it looks with the chrome finger handle.

Should look all right. Probably will be somewhat similar to Sakura's chrome garnish and the handle:

[The_Doctor]

I can't wait to do this mod. My hatch needs it bad

[ScottyTuned]

Victor, I currently have my OEM hatch button relocated to above the license plate on the rear bumper. I love the button that you did though. I'd love to have that in place of my keyhole on the JDM hatch (next to the handle).

[PCH]

There are some nice looking buttons available that you can use. I wanted it simple and cost effective since it's mostly hidden anyway in the stock xB location.

[ScottyTuned]

That is a really nice one. May I ask what site you are shopping from? Are you eBaying or googling?

[PCH]

I hit google images for ideas on what's available. That button has led illuminated ring that may not be legal to have on, but even when it's off it shows some color that may be similar to your car's. Just throwing an idea out there, i'm sure you have plenty of your own!

[ObsessedArt]

T was just telling me about this. Thank you for posting it. Ill have to save this for my near future from what i am told

[jgp833]

Thanks, PCH, for a great idea!
As I sat here this morning, picking the nasty black rubber goo off my fingers, I thought "there's gotta be some better solution than buying another one from the dealer that's just gonna do the same thing in a couple years...

Then I found your post! Awesome idea, and simple, too! Would you perhaps have the dimensions of the little plate? I'd like to make one up in advance, so I can minimize the switch-over time... Just remove the old nasty one, screw in the nice new one, butt-splice a couple wires, and stick it all back together! Dimensions would be real helpful!

Thanks!

JoeP

[PCH]

No problem. Looks to be about 4"x1".

[2006xBobp]

Dig it!!!

[litos_2006]

The genius is at it again nice work Victor