Tailgate latch/door lock problems
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Tuned
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 266
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Tailgate latch/door lock problems
Hello,
I have a '99 Ranger 2wd reg cab. I have a hard time shutting the tailgate. If I close it normally (or slam it) it won't latch. I have to lift it into place then push hard to get the latches to engage. If I wd-40 or silicone spray the latches, it will work better for a couple of days then slowly worsen. I have adjusted the plates where the latches strike but haven't been able to find a "spot" that worked any better Any ideas?
I have similar problems with the door locks I spray lube like wd-40 or silicone and it works great for a couple of days. When the locks are "dry," I need to jiggle the key a LOT before the key will actually turn in the lock. I have the two original keys and one copy and they all work the same. Temperature doesn't matter either.
Any help or ideas on either question would be greatly appreciated
TIA, Jim
I have a '99 Ranger 2wd reg cab. I have a hard time shutting the tailgate. If I close it normally (or slam it) it won't latch. I have to lift it into place then push hard to get the latches to engage. If I wd-40 or silicone spray the latches, it will work better for a couple of days then slowly worsen. I have adjusted the plates where the latches strike but haven't been able to find a "spot" that worked any better Any ideas?
I have similar problems with the door locks I spray lube like wd-40 or silicone and it works great for a couple of days. When the locks are "dry," I need to jiggle the key a LOT before the key will actually turn in the lock. I have the two original keys and one copy and they all work the same. Temperature doesn't matter either.
Any help or ideas on either question would be greatly appreciated
TIA, Jim
Posting Guru
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 1,387
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have you tried spaying the hardware under the handle. they will rust up over time but usually the problem is opening them. give it a try. you wont have to take the tailgate apart, just look under the handle from the outside.
Cargo Master
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 2,858
Likes: 3
From: Friendswood, Texas
I think that the door problem is a worn out lock cylinder. Take it to a locksmith and they should be able to get it straightened out for you in pretty short order. It would be cheaper if you can pull the lock for them but it may not exhibit them problem if not under load. I have a similar problem with the passenger door lock on my 96 Exlporer Sport.
The tailgate - Hmmm?? How well does the moving part from the tailgate line up with the catch on the bed? Does the moving part in the part move freely?
The tailgate - Hmmm?? How well does the moving part from the tailgate line up with the catch on the bed? Does the moving part in the part move freely?
