A friend has a 1988 Firebird with this option. Yesterday I explored why the hatch would not activate to lock the hatch.
After removing the necessary plastic upholstery, I checked out the assembly. It appears that the plastic "shims" just
plain rotted/warn away. Pieces in the bottom of truck.
The latch will not activate unless i pull the lit to towards me. Th heavy bristles will hold the latch in position.
I do that & hatch will lock closed.
Anyone have a solution for replacement "shims"?

 

You talking about sliders that the metal rails slide on?

This is where we all buy service parts kits for hatch, https://www.top-downsolutions.com/in...te=common/home

 

I bought the entire rebuild kit and it worked quite well