Hey All, I've got a factory topper that came without a key so I picked up a NOS T-handle with key. I removed the two bolts that hold the handle to the shell, I figured it would slide out of the latch once these were removed but no luck. My latching mechanism isn't in the best shape, and I cant tell if its just seized in there or if I'm missing something. Figured I would ask if anyone has any experience here before I break something. Here are some pics.

FWIW the handle as been stuck in that position since I got the topper. I'm not sure if its stuck, locked, broken etc.

 

Can’t help supply any answers, but this should get you back to the top for more potential viewers.

 

Judging by the rest of the area, it's likely just corrosion holding it in.
Perhaps some oil & lightly tapping it from behind in the square hole will free it?
This guy had to completely rebuilt his latch:

 

Thanks gents, That's the confidence I need to keep trying to tap it out with a hammer.

 

Have you removed the rods from the handle? If not, nothing is going anywhere. Once you get the handle out, remove the latches from both sides so you can clean em real good, you’ll be happy you did

 

Sooooo! Where did you find that NOS T-handle? I've been looking for one. Also, what Broktruk said. You gotta pop those clips up and the rods will slide out. The latch will come out easily then. I bet if up clamp it in a vise and soak it in WD40 and start moving it around, it'll be operating like new again.

 

@SlikWillie They pop up on ebay from time to time. I watched a few go by before finally pulling the plug, the prices are pretty steep but its nice having a functioning topper. Let me know if you need the factory part number for searches.

 

Finally wrapped this up tonight. I hate an unfinished thread so I figured I would post up here in case anyone runs into the same issue.

As far as I can tell, I should have been able to pop the handle out with the latch mechanism in place, but that wasn't happening. A little PB blaster and a new latch got it all together. Unfortunately the old handle broke on the way out. Thanks for the help!

 

Posting the part number would not only help me but also anyone else looking for a handle.

 

Here ya go! Should be D3TZ 9943400-B and you can find everything you need here: https://www.fordification.net/partnos/bedcover.htm





The latch mechanism should be D3TZ 99404A50-A Looks like ones for same now here: https://www.ebay.com/itm/125079091500