Rear hatch latch assby replacement "how to" w/pics
 

Finally got around to fixing the rear hatch lock today. Fairly easy job as it turned out.

The "controller" was worn out, #2 in the link. I had previously taken it apart and tried everything I could think of to make it work, but it was just done. 2000 FORD EXCURSION Parts - Tousley Ford Parts Depot Yes, it's pricey.

It only comes as a complete assembly with the latches, cables, and electric lock actuator.

https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.for...616fb41fe1.jpg



First step is to remove the inside door handle (torx bolts) and the plastic trim. Pops right off.

Remove the 3 nuts holding the assby to the door as circled below in red.

https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.for...3107c5b511.jpg
https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.for...c4fe9b007e.jpg


Circled in green, pop that clip back towards you to release the rod connecting the outside handle. You will need to re-use that clip, so be careful. Unplug the electric actuator. Gently release the key lock rod from the clip by the lock mechanism. (not pictured)

The latches are easily removed with the 3 torx bolts on the sides of the hatch. Unplug the door ajar switch connectors on both sides. It's a tight fit to get it out, may need to remove the electric actuator. I did not need to remove the wiper motor, it came out the driver's side with some wiggling.

Once you get it all out, you need to remove the switches from the old latches to use on the new assby. I fortunately figured out the "trick" to it without breaking them. :) There is a "tab" (says "tab" right on it) you need to gently pry up and then twist the switch towards the tab to remove. (circled below) Reinstall them on the new assby with a twist.

https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.for...ccf7608d02.jpg


Reinstall the manual lock rod in before you put it back in the door. It just slips into it's hole. Getting the whole thing back in the door involves various twisting and manipulating, but it will make it from the driver's side. Install the nuts, snap the clip back with the rod for the hatch handle and snap the lock cylinder rod into it's clip. Plug in the door ajar switches and manipulate them back to their proper loactions and intall the 3 torx bolts.

Make sure the cables didn't slip out from their proper spots during install and close the hatch (barn doors open just in case). I didn't do that and had slipped a cable so it wouldn't open. Crawled back over the seats and got it open, but much easier to skip that step. :)

I checked it all for several operations before I put the trim back on just to make sure everything was good. If something is wrong and the trim is in place, I think you are in for some headaches to get back in there.

Works like a charm, first time since I have owned it I can lock the back door. :-X03:-X03:-X03

Do you have the actual part number for the piece you replaced? I have had a hard time finding anything like it on the net.

Thanks.

Try this link.

https://parts.autonationfordwhitebea...ent=Controller

Thanks...

I found this site just a while after posting here. I ordered just the actuator, and will order the other if I need it after I tear it apart. It has been a heat wave of +20, so I will hopefully have time to spend some quality time with my new acquisition.

Thanks again.

Thanks a lot for putting this together! I cracked the liftgate open this morning and while the actuator is still actuating, the pin / slot combo that does the locking on the controller appears to be worn out beyond repair.

I thought I could clean / grease my way out of this problem, but I was only able to get the KEY to lock / unlock, and not reliably. Part of this is lock cylinder related (which I'll also be replacing), but it takes an uncomfortable amount of torque to lock the door w/ the current controller, and I'm pretty sure I'll eventually break the key off in the lock.

I'm probably going to end up replacing the actuator as well, but I want to see how the new controller does before ordering yet another part. Thanks again for the post.

Thank you for documenting and posting this!
Reps sent!! :-X22

Mine broke while locked. Any tips in how to get it open to do the repair. I also found this for part number, could not find it on the link, is this the correct part.? 5C7Z7843170C

Nice lift gate how to... reps for you.

Great tips here and photos always help. I wonder if there is anything that can be done to "prolong" this repair. Lithium grease maybe?

I had to change the locks on my rear door. does anyone have a pic or know how the door lock cylinder 'clip' setup is supposed to be in place with the rod for the rear glass door to manually lock and unlock with the key? I bought the clip below but cant get it to really align with the rod nor the lock cylinder. got it from autozone, as the one that was on the old lock cylinder is all corroded and broken. ty.


http://contentinfo.autozonepro.com/z...241/8/image/4/

http://www.ohioactionimages.com/EB/latch2.jpg


After 16 years that clip circled in green has broken, now the handle no longer connects to the latch mechanism and I can no longer open the rear doors without climbing inside, pulling off all the panels around the mechanism and operating it manually from the inside.

I can't find a diagram with this little plastic clip on it anywhere. Anyone happen to know where to get one? or the Part #?

Thank you!

consider a small hose clamp bent to fit.

So I finally got a moment to tear into mine, and it looks like the actuator its self is actually broken (little black nipple that moves the lock unlock for the lift gate).

However, it looks like the entire mechanism is seized. Anyone have any pictures of how it works and/or moves? I don't have any trouble opening it or closing it, just in locking it. The key turns, both unlock and lock, but it doesn't engage anything.

Looks like that entire part isn't available anymore so I'll have to salvage one. The actuator its self is like 25-40 bucks on rock auto.

Any ideas on what direction I should go with this? Thanks!!

the actuator doesnt really move much at all. if you spray that whole gold colored assembly behind the actuator with liquid wrench or something, that should help. i have the same problem with you regarding the key however, my key just turns left and right doing nothing - but it does lock with the actuator. havent been able to find a diagram or anything with whats going on with the metal rod. let me know if you find anything out.

So I am having similar problems. I can still open the window but cannot open the hatch. Is this still going to be a latch problem or a cable problem? After reading your post here and seeing your pictures (thank you by the way) I am not sure anymore. Any help is appreciated.