TailGate latches (sometimes)

Sometimes I'll close my tailgate and let go of it, only to have it fall back at me. If I close it 2 or 3 times it finally latches. Has anyone had a similar problem and fixed it? it's an '04.

I haven's had that problem on this truck, but I had an old Ford in college that did something similar to this on me once. I ended up having to replace the handle mechanism. If I remember right, in my case there was a spring or something that had broken so that when I released the handle, the latches stayed in the released position. Can't remember exactly, though, other than the fact that I replaced it. You might also check the latches themselves for binding. Might just need a little grease.

I have the same problem with my '04 but haven't taken it to the shop yet.

yup replace the whole handle. fixed it for me.

Sometimes I'll close my tailgate and let go of it, only to have it fall back at me. If I close it 2 or 3 times it finally latches. Has anyone had a similar problem and fixed it? it's an '04.

I would first give a look underneath the handle, where the rods are that pull the latches open. See if both of the clips are there and that both rods are moving freely Then check the latches themselves and see if they are also moving freely (a good lube might be in order). If you do decide to replace the handle assembly, watch out for the plastic trim piece. It is not designed well, and will break quite easily!!

You may also want to check the plastic bushing around bolt that the latch hooks into to see if that has somehow deteriorated. Also, while you're there, check to see if the rubber bumper that keeps tension on the latch itself when the gate is closed is properly positioned. I found on my '99 that the R side isn't installed correctly and the bouncing of the gate has caused the latch to saw through the bushing. As a result, I had to push the bushing back together in order to get the latch to catch.

My 01 2500hd had the same problem. I took the latch assembly apart and used a product called super slick and sprayed it inside on all the rods and moving parts. This solved the problem for a year and now it's back, I plan on doing it again this week sometime.
GAT

I have the same problem.. I have to pull the plastic cover off and push the rods out anytime I want to close and latch the tailgate.. quite embarrassing actaully.. my 93 never did that.

my dads 03 does the same thing

same problem here...got a fricken rachet strap holding the gate closed to the cap wondow handle looks stupid...ill rip it apart today and see whats going on

I have the same problem...sprayed all moving parts with white lithium grease and now it's been working fine. About broke my wrist the first time I shut it and it fell back open though. I think the truck just wanted to get my attention...

The dealer replaced the whole handle mechanism on my last repair visit...

My dealer sprayed mine with white grease... no more tie downs holding it closed.

the grase only lasts so long though...eventually you will have to replace the whole handle.

I need to take mine apart and clean it up and reapply the grease

Well that new handle lasted me less than 2 years... it's back. I'll have a look inside to see what I can lube up. (And yes, the dealer monkey broke the tabs on the plastic trim when he installed it. Luckily, he didn't remove the adhesive from the 2 sided tape, so I was able to stick it back on).