1997 Ford Explorer rear door handle replacement

[Sleepy guard]

Vehicle outer sheet metal got bumped. Opening latch just spins

 

[RickOTR]

Spring on the latch which is inside the door panel got broke. You need to replace it. Easiest way to open the window/door is to remove the plastic cover on top of the rear panel and take a phillips screwdriver to remove the small screw, then carefully pull back the panel and lift up on the rod. You then need to drill two 1" holes to gain access to the two nuts on the door handle to remove it after you get the rear lift gate open. Here's a video how to gain access...