my tailgate won't open

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Jan 28, 2018 | 11:53 AM

66f-100

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From: Montpelier, VA

my tailgate won't open

I've had my '66 long bed for years and never had a problem opening the tailgate but now it won't open. When I operate the latch, it appears that one side is releasing but the other is not. Any tips on how to get it open?

Jan 28, 2018 | 12:02 PM

AZSCAWPION

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Joined: Dec 2016

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You'll have to remove the latch handle. When you do, there are 2 rods that operate the latches (1 extends to the left, 1 to the right). You can pull inward on the one that is disconnected or broken.

Jan 28, 2018 | 12:03 PM

6t6merc

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Joined: Apr 2001

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From: Vancouver

You can remove the latch and pull on the rod. After it's open you can disassemble the mechanism and shorten the rod by bending it.
Eric

edit: You beat me, AZ.

Last edited by 6t6merc; Jan 28, 2018 at 12:04 PM. Reason: Because

Jan 28, 2018 | 12:10 PM

66f-100

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From: Montpelier, VA

thanks for the replies, I will try it

Jan 28, 2018 | 12:11 PM

AZSCAWPION

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Quote:

Originally Posted by 6t6merc

edit: You beat me, AZ.

WooHoo! First in something! Looks like it's gonna be a good day.

Jan 28, 2018 | 07:56 PM

john jamieson

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From: tucson

Don't the rod ends thread into a swiveling stud on the handle assembly? If that stud came off the assembly the one side would not be operated by the handle

Jan 28, 2018 | 11:50 PM

RangerMercMan

Fleet Mechanic

Joined: Aug 2016

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From: Great White North

I was taught that over time the metal wears down on the handle where it contacts the pivot. Get in there with a welder (yes it is hard but you just feed a lot of wire out to get in). Build up the pivot area with ugly looking weld and your problems will be fixed.