first of, do you need to remove the striker in order to remove the trim? i know that last time i tried removing the inside trim around the rear hatch, it did not seem to work with the striker in the way, and i don't know how to remove it. tried to pry on the metal circle things thinking it might reveal screws, but no luck. any tips?

 

On mine, It bolts through the body and underneath. I had to remove my rear hitch and fuel tank skid in order to get to the bolts. 5/8" deep well socket, 1' extension and a breaker bar. And on mine I dont have to remove it to get the trim off.

 

older body style too? i tried but was afraid to break the trim part and then having to find a new one. thanks for the info though, I'll check again

 

Mine is a 94 ZJ so it may be different. I almost broke mine because i missed a screw.