Tailgate Latch

Just aquired a 97 GMC Sierra. Love the truck, looks and runs great, BUT, the tailgate latch seems to have siezed in the open position, Not normally a problem as the hard tonneau usualy holds the gate closed. However on those occassions that I have to trasport something with the cover open the gate tends to fall open during acceleration. Would anyone no of an easy fix, or an aftermarket latch assembly. Want to avoid going to GM for the parts as I've seen a few trucks with the same problem, which leads me to beleive that the stock latch could use some redesigning.

Well , if it is seized what is the worst that could happen by soaking the crap outta the entire mechanisim with penatrating oil ? ?

Grafite Grease Works Great!

w d 40, then lube it once its free, remember WD40 IS NOT A LUBE BY ANY MEANS, sorry if the post is to late to be any help