Tailgate Lock Actuator

[ConduitV]

I'm aiming on replacing the lock actuator for my tailgate & have AISIN replacement in hand as the current one is failing.
Today I started looking around & attempted to remove the actuator with no luck. Searched the forums & YouTube for a walkthrough on what all needs to be disconnected to get the actuator out but didn't come up with what I needed.
Any guidance?

 

[cts]

I did this around a month ago, so I may not remember all the steps. But compared to the doors, there are a couple additional rods that have to be disconnected. The actuator itself slid out of the opening in the hatch easier than I'd expected, but the key was getting all of those rods disconnected. In the picture you attached, it's the yellow clip that needs to be detached and then there are around 4-5? more to undo.

 

[ConduitV]

I did this around a month ago, so I may not remember all the steps. But compared to the doors, there are a couple additional rods that have to be disconnected. The actuator itself slid out of the opening in the hatch easier than I'd expected, but the key was getting all of those rods disconnected. In the picture you attached, it's the yellow clip that needs to be detached and then there are around 4-5? more to undo.

Any tricks to removing them without damaging the plastic retainers?

 

[cts]

I sprayed some CRC electronics lubricant on the ones that were more resistant or had some oxidation on the rod. If you try that, be sure to use something that's safe for plastic. And then just use your fingers or a small flat head screwdriver to rotate the clip off the rod. I was initially worried about breaking the clips, but I did 2 doors plus the hatch and didn't break any.