2008 GL 1800 Rear access panel removal?

[ron203]

Hi all. Long time reader, first time poster. I bought a 2008 GL1800 in February and started to install some electrical farkles. So I was trying to look under the box and over the rear tire to make sure I had no interference with holes,etc. But NO!!! I got stuck trying to remove the panel. (Shop manual to be ordered soon... )

I've looked here and on the 'net-no luck on how to remove this panel. Found one video that shows a 5th bolt behind the tag.

My "new to me" 2008 has 4 bolts, one in each corner on the panel covering the rear tire, under the box. There is a molded place behind the plate where it looks like a 5th bolt SHOULD've been, but no bolt. There's also a rubber plug looking thing. I took the four bolts off and the panel stayed tight. What else did I miss or need to remove to free this panel?
Thanks in advance.

Ron

[DaveO430]

Prior to 06 there was a 5th bolt, yours only has the 4. It snaps in place, just pull out on it and it comes off.

[ron203]

Prior to 06 there was a 5th bolt, yours only has the 4. It snaps in place, just pull out on it and it comes off.

Kind of thought that might be the case, but didn't want to risk breaking it. Thanks!!