I have an 1984 XLT. The window will not go up or down when I turn the key on the tailgate or when I use the switch on the dash. The window will go up and down when I press on the top middle-right of the tailgate.The tailgate is shut. Is this a torsion bar problem because I hear a grinding noise when the window goes down for the final couple of inches and up for the first couple? Anyone have any ideas on how I can fix this problem. Thanks

 

First do a search on tailgates on this section of the message board.
I would climb into the back of the bronco and remove the access panel. Check the torsion bar where it goes across the inside of the tailgate. The common place for the bar to tear loose is on the drivers side. The bar should be difficult to see when you look in because it "should" be along the sheet metal inside the tailgate.

If it is the torsion bar get it fixed or fix it ASAP. I used a large U-bolt (actually it was a U-bolt from a cable clamp) to tie the end of the torsion bar back into place. This was a result of having a window explode from the torsion bar pressure on it.

There is also a window limiting switch and lockout switch in the tailgate. However due to the grinding sound you describe I would check the torsion bar.

 

Luke, I was wondering if you were able to find out the cause of your tailgate problem. I have an 89 Bronco and was expeiencing the same problem with mine.
thanks
dragonman

 

 

I fixed the problem. It was with the tailgate latch on the left side. The left would not close the circuit all of the time. So when I pushed on the tailgate it would close the circuit and work. I worked on both of the latches. I cleaned them out with WD-40 and then greased them up and really worked the grease into the latches. I also greased up the handle mechanism. I also stripped the rust of the interior tailgate, primed and painted it. It looks good and works now. Hope this helps.

Luke