JP Group Complete Tailgate (Rear Hatch), Small Lock Version | VW Vanagon 1980–1983 | Steel, Panel Ref 955770-0A (JP-3178-0)
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JP Group Complete Tailgate (Rear Hatch), Small Lock Version — VW Vanagon 1980–1983 (JP-3178-0)
Short answer: JP Group JP-3178-0 is a new, complete steel tailgate (rear hatch) shell for the early VW Vanagon with the small rear-hatch lock. EMPI lists it for 1980–1983 US Vanagons; JP Group describes it as 1979–1984 T3. Panel reference 955770-0A (JP Group 1180200100). It is a bare shell, sold each, and ships oversize.
Part numbers: JP-3178-0 · panel ref 955770-0A · JP Group 1180200100 · UPC 707924541922.
Fitment
| Years | Vehicle | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1980–1983 | VW Vanagon (US), air-cooled and early water-cooled, small-lock tailgate | Per EMPI ("Rear, small lock version") |
| 1979–1984 | VW T3 / T25 Transporter (ROW), small-lock tailgate | Per JP Group/EMPI product name |
| 1984–1991 | VW Vanagon with the later large tailgate lock | Does not fit as-is — the lock opening differs. Fitment to confirm on transition-year 1984 vans. |
| Any | Westfalia and pop-top campers | Fitment to confirm — same body tailgate, but check any camper-specific trim or rack mounts |
| 1968–1979 | VW Bus (Bay Window) | Does not fit |
Specifications
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | JP Group (Denmark), distributed by EMPI |
| Part number | JP-3178-0 |
| Panel reference | 955770-0A |
| JP Group reference | 1180200100 |
| UPC | 707924541922 |
| Material | Steel, complete tailgate shell |
| Lock version | Small lock (early) |
| Weight (EMPI) | 35.2 lb |
| Package (EMPI) | 67 x 47 x 9 in (oversize / freight) |
| Sold as | Each |
What's Included
- One complete steel tailgate shell.
Not Included
- Rear window glass (heated glass: JP-1341-0) and window seal
- Lock, handle, lock cylinder and striker
- Hinges, hinge seals and gas struts
- Interior trim panel, license plate light and wiper motor (JP-1554-0)
- Tailgate perimeter seal
- Paint
Why It Matters
Vanagon tailgates rust from the inside out. Water gets past the window seal and the lock, sits in the bottom of the hatch and rots the lower edge, the drain holes and the area around the lock and license light. By the time bubbles show through the paint, the inner frame is often gone too. Repair panels (such as JP-1280-0) cover the lower skin, but when the frame and window channel are also rotten, a complete new shell is faster and stronger than rebuilding the old one. Good used early small-lock tailgates are getting scarce, and most have the same rust.
Installation Notes
- Test-fit the bare shell on the hinges before paint. Check the gaps to the roof, sides and bumper, and that the lock engages the striker.
- Prime, seal and paint inside and out, and apply cavity wax inside the frame before you install any hardware.
- Transfer or replace the glass, seals, lock, handle, struts and trim. New window and perimeter seals are strongly recommended.
- Adjust at the hinges and the striker so the hatch closes without slamming and seals evenly.
- This is a two-person job. The shell is large and the gas struts must be supported during fitting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this fit my 1982 Vanagon?
Yes, if it has the original small tailgate lock. EMPI lists JP-3178-0 for 1980–1983 Vanagons.
Small lock or large lock — how do I tell?
Early vans have a small lock cylinder and handle under the rear window. Later vans (about mid-1984 on) use a larger lock assembly with a bigger opening. Compare the lock opening on your hatch with the product photo.
Is it a genuine VW part?
No. It is a new JP Group replacement tailgate. 955770-0A is the JP/EMPI panel reference, not a VW OE number.
What else do I need?
Glass, seals, lock and handle, struts and trim from your old hatch or new. Plan on paint before assembly.
Does it come painted?
No. It must be prepared and painted to match your van.
Is it new?
Yes, a new JP Group tailgate.
How does it ship?
The carton is 67 x 47 x 9 inches, so it ships oversize or by freight.
Explore Related Categories
VW Vanagon Parts Body Panels & Sheet Metal
California Prop 65 Warning: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead and/or lead compounds, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information, visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov. Legal for use on pre-pollution-controlled vehicles only.
