Both of the plastic shims have busted off the tail gate latch rods. I have the LE with the tail gate trim panel. Will I have to pull the panel to get the latch out enough to replace the shims?

Thank you,

 

I didn't. But there could be an easier way...

 

Well. There is a part of the trim that goes up into the latch handle recess. I have watched a video of the procedure and it is easy but the tail gate in the video did not have the trim panel.

 

I'm assuming by "shims" you are referring to the plastic clips that hold the tailgate linkage rods in place in both the latch assemblies and the handle assembly? My LE also has the tailgate trim panel. Removal is easy-peasy, with eight screws on the inside of the tailgate, and four plastic push pins in the corners. GENTLY pry the plastic pins loose. Breaking one may be difficult to replace. Once the trim panel is removed, the tailgate handle assembly in the center of the tailgate is easily accessible for replacement of the plastic clips that hold the control rods. And on the LE, unless the trim panel is removed first, it is IMPOSSIBLE to work on the tailgate latching assemblies. The clips and linkage rods are simply inaccessible.

 

Great. I will get to it. Thanks.

 

Just a comment. My LE tailgate has not been openable for twenty years or so using the center handle. I have considered fixing it but I always come to the conclusion that having to raise the little arm coming out of the latch in the passenger side is well worth the fact that not any fool can walk up and open the tailgate. Just a thought 🤔…Mark

 

Almost all my 1st and 2nd gens need to have that little arm inside the bed lifted to make the tailgate open. I am with Mark. I just look at it as an anti theft device for my tailgate.

 

Or, if you're like me and simply want to restore the truck to OEM functionality, you'll simply remove the trim, unbolt the center latch to ease removal of the latch arms, and simply replace the offending latches with new. https://www.carparts.com/details/Dod...T-RB38671.html
Regards,
Pete

 

It's kind like the the old farmer in a Wendell Berry book. When he's asked why he doesn't patch his leaky roof, the farmer responds: when it rains he can't and when it don't it doesn't need it...