Squareback Rear Hatch Seal – 361-705 The 361-705 is a vital component for maintaining the cabin environment of your Type 3. Because the Squareback has a large rear gate, the original seals often dry out and flatten over decades, leading to annoying rattles and water ingress that can ruin your headliner and carpet. This seal is manufactured from high-density EPDM rubber, which stays flexible in cold weather and resists the high heat cycles found near the rear-mounted air-cooled engine. It replicates the factory thickness so the hatch latches with a solid "thud" rather than being impossible to close or staying loose. Detailed Vehicle Compatibility VW Type 3 Squareback: 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973 Product Highlights & Features One-Piece Design: Supplied as a continuous loop to provide seamless coverage around the entire hatch perimeter. Acoustic Barrier: Reduces road noise and engine drone by providing a soft, airtight cushion between the hatch and the body. UV Stabilized: Formulated to withstand direct sunlight exposure when the hatch is open, preventing premature cracking. Technical Specifications Part Number: 361-705 / 361-827-705 Position: Rear Hatch Outer Application: VW Type 3 Squareback (Variant) Material: Black EPDM Rubber Installation & Maintenance Tips Adhesive Recommendation: For the best results, use a high-quality weatherstrip adhesive in the body channel to prevent the seal from pulling away during hatch operation. Settling Period: After installation, keep the hatch closed for 24–48 hours to allow the seal to compress and "take a set" to your specific vehicle's hatch alignment. Latch Adjustment: You may need to adjust the hatch striker plate slightly after installation, as the new, thick rubber will provide more resistance than the old, flattened seal.
