Tailgate

[korndogg]

My tailgate either wont shut or only shuts on one side. Should I just grease the latches or do I need to replace them??? And is this fairly easy to do? Im sick of hitting a bump and my tailgate falling.

[nineball481]

I'd definetly try to grease the latch, before buying new ones. Since I haven't had this problem, I have never looked at the latches, can you see if they are just sticking, are they misaligned or maybe the handle is no longer working the latch?

I have heard on this forum that the rod ends on the handle can wear out some times, maybe this has happened. The ends can be replace, though it is a pain in the ass, apparently.......

Sorry, I couldn't be more help.

[mjgjr72]

it is probably the pivot behind the handle, had the same problem, use a flashlight and look behind the handle for the pivot point for the release arms that pull the two bars that go th the latches, spray it with some lube and use a srew driver to move the arms out, and pull handle to pull them in, do this a few times to free it up.

[BCMaxima]

Originally Posted by mjgjr72

it is probably the pivot behind the handle, had the same problem, use a flashlight and look behind the handle for the pivot point for the release arms that pull the two bars that go th the latches, spray it with some lube and use a srew driver to move the arms out, and pull handle to pull them in, do this a few times to free it up.

Just did this last night and also had to lube the outer end pivot points. Wedged a screwdriver in the actual latch to keep it in the locked (down when tailgate open) position then used another screwdriver to alternately push the pivot connected to the rod in towards the center of the tailgate, then pull it back out by levering behind the spring. Eventually this, in combination with a bunch of lube freed up the end pivot. Worx like a charm now.

[misfitt006]

I dont' have a cover on my bed so I always drive with my tailgate down to help with milage. I'll have to keep my eys on my latches I guess so when I do put it up when hauling it won't fall on me and dump all my stuff on the road....and the person behind me lol

[steelieagw81]

the latch is rusty on the inside underneath the bevel u can remove it and grease it but it only works for a short while i have to manually push the pins over to get it to shut all the way. one time i forgot and the cable broke and the tailgate fell off and dragged down the road.

[misfitt006]

Originally Posted by steelieagw81

one time i forgot and the cable broke and the tailgate fell off and dragged down the road.

OUCH!!!!!!!!