Tailgate Problem

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

Jul 6, 2007 | 09:34 AM

ejolliffe

Thread Starter

Senior User

Joined: May 2007

Posts: 148

Likes: 0

Tailgate Problem

I have a '78 F150 and the tailgate is really hard to open. The latch looks a little tired. The problem is on the passenger side the piece that is hooked to the end of the rod and actually keeps the gate from falling back open (the edge looks like a chisel) doesn't seem to want to retract all the way. I am using a screwdriver to 'pop' it out of the latch hole in order to open. Do I need a new latch, do I have a bad rod or am I down to getting a whole new tailgate? Any direction would be great!

Jul 6, 2007 | 12:40 PM

warthog5

Senior User

Joined: Feb 2005

Posts: 208

Likes: 1

Open the tailgate and remove the inspection panel on the inside of the gate.

Now you will be able to see where the problem lies in the linkage.

Jul 7, 2007 | 02:40 AM

NumberDummy

Ford Parts Specialist

Joined: Nov 2006

Posts: 88,826

Likes: 785

From: Simi Valley, CA

1964/79 F100/350 Tailgate Mechanisms

Styleside tailgates use the same R/L latches, arms, hinges, strikers, rubber bumpers = 1964/79.

Only the handle and rods are different. The handle and rods are the same 1973/79.

If by pulling the handle, the right side latch doesn't release, it may be because the CLIP that holds the rod to the handle has broken. There are two clips, one right, one left. Both are the same part number.

This same clip fits 1973/1991, all F Series Styleside tailgates.

E3TZ1021952B .. Clip = Rod to Handle (replaces: E3TZ1021952A)

Still available from Ford = List Price = $2.00

Last edited by NumberDummy; Jul 7, 2007 at 03:00 AM.

Feb 17, 2011 | 08:40 PM

kensamp

New User

Joined: Feb 2011

Posts: 2

Likes: 0

Tailgate Problem

I have a Ford 1994 F-150 XLT

I BROKE the Handle off of the Tailgate ....

Now I Cannot open it - SUGGESTIONS PLEASE!!!!! rolleyes:

Please advise - locksmithken@yahoo.com

Feb 18, 2011 | 07:06 AM

warthog5

Senior User

Joined: Feb 2005

Posts: 208

Likes: 1

Have you taken the inspection panel off the inside of the gate? Have you looked in there.

Sounds like a new handle and some maintenance lubing all the working parts in there are in order.

Feb 18, 2011 | 11:20 AM

kensamp

New User

Joined: Feb 2011

Posts: 2

Likes: 0

Tailgate Problem

There is NO access or inspection panel there - NONE - that is not the answer -

Screwdriver will not open it - there is no acess panel - nothing to grab onto ..

Need more suggestions.....