I have a problem with the 3rd door on a 97 f150. The latch broke and the door wont open. This door has RODS NOT CABLES to operate the bottom latch mechanism. I know the vast majority of this year trucks have a cable operated latch, but mine has all rods. They move like theyre suppost 2 and i lubed the latch mechanism but it still wont open. This is a very early build 97 made in April of 1996. Anybody ever deal with this problem b4?

 

You should still have a cable going to the top latch. Tht is where your problem is most likley

 

There are no cables in this door, and the latch is on the bottom.

 

Here is the bottom latch. Im thinkin the only way to get the door open is to saw the bottom striker in two, which wont be easy.

 

I can see your uper cable it is out of it's slot. Look in your first pic above the latch. all of the rear doors have an upper and lower latch. I will see if I can find a pic.

 

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Number 13 is your upper latch and cable. You can ziptie that cable so it stays in place. Do a serch for rear door latch.

 

You can also ziptie them in place and thay will work fine. Anouther option is bicycle brake adjusters will work.And alot cheaper.

 

I have seen that done here on the board. But how long does it last? I think I would rather use metal and not have to bother with it again.