JP Group Tailgate (Rear Hatch) Lock Cylinder Gasket | VW Vanagon 1984–1991 | OE 251 829 233 (JP-8736-0)
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JP Group Tailgate (Rear Hatch) Lock Cylinder Gasket — VW Vanagon 1984–1991 (JP-8736-0)
Short answer: JP Group JP-8736-0 is the rubber gasket that seals the rear hatch (tailgate) lock and handle to the outer skin of the 1984–1991 VW Vanagon. It replaces VW OE 251 829 233 (JP Group ref 1187751800), keeps water out of the hatch and stops the lock rattling against the paint. Sold each.
Fitment
| Years | Vehicle | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1984–1991 | VW Vanagon incl. GL, Westfalia, Carat and Syncro | Late (large) tailgate lock, per EMPI |
| 1980–1984 | VW Vanagon early tailgate lock | Not confirmed — early vans use the smaller 251 829 231 lock; compare your old gasket |
| 1968–1979 | VW Bay Window Bus | Does not fit — Bus uses the 211 829 233 B handle gasket |
| 1992+ | VW EuroVan | Does not fit |
Specifications
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Part number | JP Group JP-8736-0 |
| OE reference | 251 829 233 |
| JP Group reference | 1187751800 |
| UPC | 707924570229 |
| Material | Rubber (not stated by EMPI) |
| Position | Between tailgate lock / handle and outer hatch skin |
| Sold as | Each |
| Shipping weight | Estimate 0.1 lb (not published) |
What's Included
- One rear hatch lock cylinder gasket
Not Included
- Tailgate lock, lock cylinder or keys
- Retaining nuts or clips
Why It Matters
On a Vanagon, rain runs straight down the tailgate past the lock. The original gasket hardens, shrinks and cracks after decades in the sun, and then water gets behind the lock and pools inside the bottom of the hatch. That is one of the main reasons Vanagon tailgates rust out along the lower edge. A failed gasket also lets the lock body rub through the paint, which starts rust right around the handle, and can make the lock rattle or feel loose. If you are fitting a new tailgate lock, repainting the hatch, or chasing a damp rear carpet, a fresh gasket is the cheapest part of the job and one of the most important.
Installation Notes
- Open the hatch and remove the inner trim panel to reach the lock retaining nuts.
- Remove the lock, clean the paint around the opening, and treat any rust before fitting the new gasket.
- Place the gasket on the lock (not the body) so it stays centered while you refit.
- Tighten the retaining nuts evenly and only enough to compress the gasket slightly; over-tightening splits the rubber.
- Check that the key turns and the hatch latches and releases freely before refitting the trim.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it fit my 1988 Vanagon Westfalia?
Yes. EMPI lists 1984–1991 Vanagons.
Does it fit my 1982 Vanagon?
Not confirmed. Early vans use a smaller tailgate lock. Compare your old gasket before ordering.
Is this the same as OE 251 829 233?
Yes. JP Group cross-references JP-8736-0 to VW 251 829 233.
Do I need to remove the lock to fit it?
Yes. The gasket sits between the lock and the outer skin.
What else do I need?
Nothing, unless your lock or keys are worn. We list JP Group Vanagon tailgate locks separately.
Is it new?
Yes, new JP Group.
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Body Panels & Hardware VW Vanagon Parts
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.
