'99 Explorer. I adjusted the hinge pins several times and have to really slam the tail gate several times before the gate closes and the interior light goes out. Does anyone have an idea to make it easier? Thanks.

 

It closes, but won't latch, right? Check that the tailgate handle is returning to the normal position, which is closer to the tailgate. When you squeeze the handle and then let go, the handle should return. If it doesn't, you may have to push it towards the tailgate. Then try to close it and see if it latches properly. I'm having this issue with mine at the moment but I haven't taken anything apart yet to figure it out. Could be a weak spring, sticky mechanism, etc. Too many other things to fix first.

 

It's the right side that won't latch consistantly. The handle is returning fine. It's in the latch somewhere. Good luck with yours.

 

You probably already checked this, but I'll mention it anyway just in case. Is the light switch good?

 

If both sides close and lock the light goes out. I can feel one side not locking.

 

I have the other problem, mine won't open.

 

I worked on mine this weekend. One side (left) would not latch and the light would stay on. I lubed up the latch mechanisms on both sides. I also removed the interior panel and lubed up the lock/unlock mechanism driven by the handle. There was a pin with a washer that slid inside a slot and it was binding up so that the mechanism would not return to the normal position that the return spring was pulling it. The pin is located outboard (toward the door skin) of the lower rod that goes to the right hand side latch. I also lubed anything that rotated, but the pin/washer in the slot was the issue. You might have a similar issue with yours.

This would make more sense with a picture, but I can't figure out how to attach an image.

 

You need to upload the image to a photosharing website (Photobucket, Picasa, etc.), then paste in the image link to here.

-Rod

 

OK. That's kinda what I thought. It's just one more account/user name and one more password I need to remember...

 

You can use the same user name and password for any number of websites if you want. If it's being used just put a 1 behind the name. Create an account with photobucket, upload your photo/s, copy the whole IMG address. In photobucket click on the photo and it'll bring up a larger picture. Click on the IMG box and it will copy automatically. In any website/forum type your stuff, skip a line and paste the IMG. Your picture/s will show when you post.