I couldn't quite phrase what I meant for the subject...

I have an extremely rotted out hatch, but, the rear defrost works perfectly and there are no defects in the glass.

I picked up a mint hatch that has been sitting outside for about a year. So, I don't know if the defrost is going to work as good.

Can I leave the hatch glass on the car and just swap the rear most piece of it? If so, how does it come off?

 

It really depends on how much work you want to do.
The defrost element will work the same (unless it's turning green from corrsion, delaminating from the glass or, broken) no matter how long it's been outside or not used.
To swap hatches, 4bolts at the hinges inside, remove the struts and a little grunt work to swap the heavy a-- glass.
Decklid swap.. https://www.thirdgen.org/newdesign/t...tchalign.shtml
Though the article for alignment, replacing is the same, your just not reusing your old deck. Plus you also will have to get the deck off the donor hatch as well.

 

The article states that you should have a friend hold the side or the frame, as there is a big chance for breakage. What do they mean? If you drop it? Or once the back part is off it is very fragile?

 

Anyone? I'm affraid to do it, I don't want to break the glass!

 

I believe what they are referring to is the fact that there is a really strong sealant holding that panel to the glass. It will come loose with some pressure. That is why it is recommended that you have an assistant hold the side of the frame.

The Trickster!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!