rear hatch door stuck

[safariman]

Can anybody help me to open my rear hatch door on my 94 Safari? The right side latch releases but the left side won't. It sounds like the solenoid on that side is activating but it won't release. How the heck do you get at the inner workings with the door still closed. I don't see how to get the inside panel off with the door still closed! Is there possibly a connecting rod or something broken? I've never seen the inner workings of the door latch so don't have any idea what might be going on in there or a trick to get it open. Help!!!

[esjones]

We've had this happen on our 94 Safari, too. I couldn't figure it out, and had to take it to the dealer. Not much help, I know. Sorry.

[pcv]

The latch assembly is probably seized. That is what normally happens when its not used often. Water gets in there and rust forms. The rear panel will have to come off at least halfway so you can spray wd40 or something similar to loosen the rust. There is a top and bottom latch. Lubricate them both and work them till they open. The rear panel is held in place by either push in plastic plugs or there might be hidden screws. Good Luck.