99 Explorer tail gate panel - how to remove?

[m4sports]

I think my tailgate lock actuator is shot. I am new at the whole fix-my-truck -myself thing, but I figured this would be a good place to start. To replace the actuator, I need to remove the interior panel (liner) on the tale gate. I poked around and removed the handle. The rest seems be be held on with hidden clips. I want to avoid cracking the liner and was wondering if there are any tips to getting out (insert a puddy knife in a certain spot and pry, utter special incantations over the gate)? Any feedback is appreciated.

[madsonp]

You're still in the Expedition/Navigator forum for some reason

[Gevans17]

1. check you private messages

2. remove the handle from the lift gate .Should be a trim panel plug under there. remove it and then remove the screw under it.

3. should be several clips at the top and sides of the panel around the glass. It calls for a special "trim removal kit" to remove the trim panel from the window opening.

4. lift trim panel upwards toward the top of the lift gate to remove panel from door.