Guys,

I went to open my tailgate and nothing happens- is there some common parts which are easily to get??

Anyway, help would be greatly appreciated before I tear it open.

Michael

 

I think it's a clip. You do know how to trip the latches til then, right?

 

Usually there is nothing broken. There are little tabs that are pulled by the linkage that are bent in an offset (made of thin metal) that get pulled out of place. These are in the latch mechanisms at the ends of the tailgate. Remove the hardware and inspect. They can usually be repaired with a pair of pliers.

 

On the inside of the tailgate (side that faces the cab) you can reach and feel for a small lever where the latch is. Sometimes if you pull up on it you can unlatch the tailgate.

 

Couple things happen. There are little plastic clips holding the arms in place.

Usually the actual latch mechanisms get all gunked up and it becomes hard to pull. One of 2 things can happen. 1. The plastic pieces break or 2. The arms bend.

Take it all out and clean it up and fix it. It's an easy job and we'll worth a working tailgate that opens and closes with ease

Sent from Tapatalk 4 via a Galaxy S3

 

Mine has been like that since I bought the truck. I've thought about fixing it, but I like the idea that some ratero (Spanish for thievin' bastage) can't just come up and open the tailgate. I have gotten used to using my thumbnail to open it...Mark

 

Me too! I know it is my D/s latch that is the culprit. I also had to replace the handle to because it was worn out. However, the idea of locking the glovebox I am hesitant of because I would rather be robbed than robbed and have my perfectly good dash broken. Sad huh?

 

Are there any instructions on how to take the tailgate apart?

 

There is a thread in the body section of the sticky: Here ...Mark

 

Thanks, Mark!

 

Remove the screws from the tailgate trim, remove the tailgate trim, using a #4 Phillips remove the lever screws, remove the latch bolts on each side, and disconnect the rods from the plastic clips. Its very simple.

On reassembly attached the rods to the latches on each side and slide into the tailgate, install the lever but dont install the screws until you reconnect the rods. Once everything is connected bolt everything back on. I suggest replacing the phillips screws for the lever with hex head bolts.

 

I did not know they made a #4 Phillips. All I have is a #3. Good call on using hex head bolts.

 

I know it's been a while. Can someone help me with the clip part numbers?
ALso, my dodge manual doesn't mention removing the trim panel- do I need some retainers for it as well?

Maybe Fastenal carries the clips? They tend to be good quality.

 

Think you can get the clips from the "Help" board at your local auto parts store. Think GM/Chevy used the same basic clip.

 

Mopar part numbers:
passenger side (white): 4658 676
driver side (black): 4658 677

You should not need to remove the trim panel.