Rear hatch issues

[b4rigger]

Hey guys, I just picked up a '98 XLT in great shape for $1500. Theres a few issues with it, mostly having to do with the locks. The main issue is on the rear hatch. When I lock the doors and everything, I can go back and just pull on the hatch and it pops right open. It looks like the lock mechanism is stuck up. Would it be terribly hard to just replace the lock mechanism or would another method work. Any help would be appreciated!

 

[TheJackal]

You might want to remove the panel on the rear hatch and take a look inside.

The panel is removed by removing the 2 screws behind the strap, and 1 screw behind a cover. There are 6 snaps too around the window that you have to pull out carefully.

I've read a few posts about people having trouble and it's usually something plastic inside that's broken, either the mount for the actuator or something. With the cover off you'll be able to see it work, test wiring, etc...

here's a couple of pics of me taking the hatch panel off:
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=226424
It concentrates mostly on the wiper motor but you'll see the rest in there

 

[b4rigger]

Wow good write up. I can see the part I need to work on in your 8th picture. Thank you very much!