Leaking Sunroof (at Rear)

[smoltz]

So, went through the car wash in my new (to me) FZJ80 (which is turning out to be quite a lemon). Sunroof is leaking badly at rear, across whole rear edge, on the highway it whistles as well.

Is there any adjustment on the off chance that it just isn't closing in the right spot? Seems more likely issue is that the seal needs replacing. Looks like Toyota only sells seal if you buy the glass. Are there any 3rd party sources for just the seal? Mine 80 is actually an LX450. Anyone know if it's the same part? I know the rear windows on the LX have a different color tint.

Thanks for any input. This forum has been a life saver so far. Already fixed my broken HVAC, swapped out my ratty steering wheel, put in a CDL switch, diagnosed my bogus power seat switch, all thanks to the folks on here.

 

[nuclearlemon]

there are shims that adjust the assembly, but i do not claim to know how they work

my notes say to search for jerseycruisers posts for sunroof issues

 

[Rifleman]

Have you checked the sun roof drains to make sure they are not plugged, before replacing the seal??? The sun roof drains being plugged on these trucks, is a common problem causing leaks.

 

[MoJ]

Not to suggest it's the root cause of your issue:
Remove the interior trim around the sunroof and you'll see six bolts to remove the the sunroof glass. These six bolts attach the sunroof to the track. The shim plates are between the sunroof and the track. Can't miss them. It's an easy job.

Sunroofs leak due to one or more of the below:

- clogged drain hoses
- kinked drain hoses
- disconnected drain hoses
- debris in the drain pan
- improperly shimmed
- failed outer seal allowing more water in than drains can handle

There are a few suggestions (search) for placing a thin gauge wire in the lip of the rubber seal to get it to expand. The sunroof glass and seal are one piece and must be purchased together.

 

[smoltz]

Thanks everyone. I don't believe the drain is the main issue as water coming in across the entire edge. The fact I can hear air coming tells me I think the shims are the first thing I neee to addres. I will report back.