Rear lift gate stuck

[surfallday808]

i have a 98 explorer sport 2dr manual 2WD. My rear hatch wont open even the window also, i stick my key in an when i turn it to unlock it wont let me go all the way leading me to believe theres a jam, also when i hit the lock/unlock button the liftgate makes a distinct buzzing sound as if someone is buzzing you in to through a door or like a gameshow buzzer. im guessing im gonna have to climb in and fix it from inside. any help or suggestions?

 

[koda2000]

don't know if will help, but it sometimes works with hoods and doors. try pushing on the hatch (fairly hard w/out denting it) and try the key or unlock button. somtimes latches will get jammed (partailly open or closed) due to lack of period lubrication.

 

[chefduane]

I am having a similar problem with my '98 Exp XLT 4x. The rear hatch/window will not open at all. The key will turn but neither the push knob for the window for the hatch lever will work. Check all fuses and all ok. The actuator does not sound like it is working.
Utube has a great vid on how to replace the acutuator but the first step is "open the rear hatch." Sorry, no joy on that.
Any suggestions?
Chef Duane
Plano, TX.
'98 XLT 4x4 4.0SOHC

 

[Joe Dirt]

You'll need to pull the rear trim panel so you can manually release the hatch latches... Pain, but possible.

 

[chefduane]

You'll need to pull the rear trim panel so you can manually release the hatch latches... Pain, but possible.

Yep, had to climb in via a rear passenger door to get the trim panel off from inside and then futz around to release the hatch locks. What a pain!!

 

[fredscott]

were you able to get the trim off without pulling it with the liftgate closed?