tailgate not latching
Feb 4, 2008 | 09:49 PM
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From: Wayne, PA
tailgate not latching
My tailgate today would not latch properly. 3 closes for it to finally stay and that was with only the left side latching. Right side doesn't seem to be doing anything. There are no visible signs of dirt or debris. Do you think WD-40 would help or should I take the cover off and start looking around. Days are not long enough.
Feb 4, 2008 | 10:02 PM
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From: Somewhere In FTE Land
You can try but remove the access panel and check to see if the rods are returning to a park postion and not sticking
Feb 4, 2008 | 10:02 PM
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From: Somewhere In FTE Land
Might even need a latch I just recalled that I have replace a couple
Feb 4, 2008 | 10:04 PM
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From: Wayne, PA
Broncochris,
I will give that a shot as soon as I get some daylight.
Thanks
Feb 4, 2008 | 10:05 PM
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From: Wayne, PA
what are the chances of both sides going?
Feb 4, 2008 | 10:06 PM
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From: Somewhere In FTE Land
50/50. could replace the one and in 2 weeks for example you may replace the other
Feb 4, 2008 | 10:08 PM
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From: Wayne, PA
with a bad latch, is there any chance of the gate opening while driving?
Feb 4, 2008 | 10:09 PM
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From: Somewhere In FTE Land
Yes, had a couple cases inwhich that has happened
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Feb 4, 2008 | 10:13 PM
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From: Wayne, PA
i guess i will address the situation sooner rather then later. I would hate to think of loosing something out the back and someone getting hurt. Especially since I now know it is a possibility. Any idea how much a latch should run and how long to install. I only had the access cover off once and that was to secure the bed cap.
Feb 4, 2008 | 10:14 PM
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From: Somewhere In FTE Land
can remove the tailgate. prob increase fuel economy
Feb 4, 2008 | 10:21 PM
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From: Wayne, PA
i could remove it, then I have to tie stuff in. I think i'll just try to fix it. If that doesn't work I can always try the dealer. Thank you for all of the input.
Feb 4, 2008 | 10:23 PM
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From: Somewhere In FTE Land
Its a very easy fix just alignment is the fun part.
Feb 4, 2008 | 10:25 PM
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From: Wayne, PA
i just left some rep points for all of the help - have a great night.
Feb 4, 2008 | 10:27 PM
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From: Somewhere In FTE Land
you too and good luck. It should be a t27 or t30 for the access panel. goodnight
Feb 7, 2008 | 07:59 PM
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From: Wayne, PA
I wanted to share with everyone the WD-40 worked great. No need to disassemble, just gave each side a good shot.
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