1985 Ranger Tailgate

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Dec 22, 2003 | 12:50 PM

falcontom

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1985 Ranger Tailgate

I'm about to purchase a '85 Ranger. When I pull the tailgate handle the latches holding each side move but not far enough to release the tailgate. Thanks for any suggestions.

Dec 22, 2003 | 07:28 PM

Ken00

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Joined: Dec 2001

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From: South Jersey

Welcome to FTE!!!

It sounds like the linkage inside the tailgate is bent, you will have to take it apart and bend it back.

Dec 22, 2003 | 09:26 PM

hreed

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From: Homer, Alaska

Before you take it all apart. try hosing it down with LPS 2 or another lubricant. Even WD-40 will work but I don't like using it for a lubricant. Spray both latches and the release handle. You may have to open it up to get inside the release, but at least that's just a few screws. Had this problem several times and this usually fixes it.

Dec 23, 2003 | 09:32 AM

tomw

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Joined: Jan 2002

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From: suburban atlanta

Push the tailgate closed while you try to unlatch it. My '85 had that problem.. needed lubrication. Eventually broke the little plastic thingy that holds the pull-rod to the handle linkage. Torkx screws are used to hold the handle in place, and you CAN undo them, and wriggle the handle down to get to the linkage to lube it.
tom