98 expy (girlfriend's truck)...the liftgate latch is completely horked. can't open at all. cable is off but ok. the latch appears frozen. potentially could be the power lock actuator, but i think the latch needs replaced anyhow. anybody ever get the tailgate open by removing the 2 bolts holding the striker plate? then i could R & R the latch?

 

Try searching for it in the search section. There was someone with a similar problem that finally got it done.

 

thanks. most search results point to the cable or the door ajar sensor. this is the latch itself not unlatching. Before I go trying to unbolt the striker so I can get the latch open, I am asking if anyone has ever done that. If I unbolt the striker, will I be able to remove & replace the latch?
Thanks.

 

I have been lucky enough not to have a problem like that. The posts I was referring to was to remove the trim piece to access the mechanism and he was successful. I believe he posted a "How To" in the thread. I doubt that your approach will work as I believe the latch anchor is recessed in the sheetmetal under the door.

 

yes, the inside trim is removed. I can access the latch from inside the truck. still, no matter what i try to move, the latch will not open. it is possible that a faulty power actuator is preventing the latch from opening. if i unbolt the striker, will i be able to open the liftgate and access the screws that hole the latch? be forgive my ignorance, as i have never seen an expy liftgate open.

 

See if this helps;

SECTION 501-14A: Handles, Locks, Latches and Mechanisms 2000 Expedition/Navigator Workshop Manual

REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION

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Latch —Liftgate
Removal

Disconnect the battery ground cable (14301).
Remove the liftgate trim panel. For additional information, refer to Section 501-05 .
On Navigator, remove the license plate bracket. For additional information, refer to Section 501-08 .
Separate the liftgate latch from the liftgate.
Remove the screws.
Separate the liftgate latch from the liftgate.

Disconnect the door open warning lamp electrical connector.

CAUTION: Be careful not to kink the liftgate latch control cable while disconnecting it.

Disconnect the liftgate latch control cable.
Remove the liftgate latch.

Installation

NOTE: When the battery is disconnected and reconnected, some abnormal drive symptoms may occur while the vehicle relearns its adaptive strategy. The vehicle may need to be driven 16 km (10 mi) or more to relearn the strategy.

To install, reverse the removal procedure.
If necessary, use Multi-Purpose Grease F5AZ-19G209-AA (aerosol) or equivalent meeting Ford Specification ESR-M1C159-A to lubricate the latch.