Tailgate Issue

Hey Guys, I need some help. I have a 00 Silverado 1500 Z71 249,000 miles. I can't get my tailgate down. When I pull the handle I can hear it click but it only moves a fraction and will not open. I don't think the latches are releasing all the way. Any ideas on how to fix this? Thanks.:banghead:

Hey Guys, I need some help. I have a 00 Silverado 1500 Z71 249,000 miles. I can't get my tailgate down. When I pull the handle I can hear it click but it only moves a fraction and will not open. I don't think the latches are releasing all the way. Any ideas on how to fix this? Thanks.:banghead:

Pull off the black trim bezel and look inside. You should see linkages, one for each side of the tailgate. Pull these linkages inwards to release the latches on each side. If oiling the handle mechanism with silicone grease doesn't work, you may have to buy a new tailgate handle (not too expensive).