Can't get my @#*&! tailgate open!

[surfpig]

Like the title says...

I was at the store yesterday and went to open the back and the driver's side won't release! My guess is that the star wheel is out of alignment, or maybe the linkage. Short of pulling out the crowbar and forcing it open is there any way to get it to let go?

 

[fj55mike]

I actually just dealt with this yesterday. The way to fix it is to take off the tailgate access panel, and with the window up, you will see a linkage from the handle to the latch. This linkage has an adjustment in the middle, all you need is a 10 mm wrench to loosen the nut, then pull the linkage tight, and then retighten the nut. It may take several attempts to get the proper tension, but that's how it's done.

HTH
Mike

 

[RHINO]

mike nailed it, sometimes if you jiggle the gate while lifting the handle it will open, but be very carefull pulling on the brittle handle.

 

[surfpig]

Thanks.

This is the second time it's happened. I know it's out of adjustment because that side rattles like it's not fully closed. If I don't pull it open evenly it catches, then it's stuck, but usually a good hard pull does it...

Guess it's time to get around to fixing it before camping season.

 

[tyama]

If you have a tailgate that's sticking or hard to open, it is well, well worth your while to adjust it ASAP. I let mine go and just kept on pulling harder on it till broke and I had to pay SOR major bucks to get a new one. You can adjust it so it opens pretty easily. It's pretty easy. Another "Doh" moment for me, ty

 

[surfpig]

If you have a tailgate that's sticking or hard to open, it is well, well worth your while to adjust it ASAP. I let mine go and just kept on pulling harder on it till broke and I had to pay SOR major bucks to get a new one. You can adjust it so it opens pretty easily. It's pretty easy. Another "Doh" moment for me, ty

I finally got around to dealing with it today: simple adjustment of the linkage. Now it opens just fine. Still doesn't latch fully on that side, and it never has...

I've always been careful to not pull it open using the latch, so hopefully I didn't add too much wear and tear.