Tailgate won't open

[youngil006]

I can't open the tailgate. Seems to be a problem with the release handle, there is no tension. How do I get into the tailgate to see the problem. How is the tailgate door panel removed and can it be done when the gate is down.
Any tips would be greatly appreciated

 

[Exploderpilot]

oh boy that is a good one..... i think you can pull the panel off from the inside, but it is not easy. it is held in with door snaps....and some screws.

 

[youngil006]

is there a way to open the door without the use of the latch?

 

[Exploderpilot]

if you get the panel off the backside, you can reach around the sheet metal opening, and unlatch it. does the window open?

 

[youngil006]

the window can open no problem. The liftgate can't open. It feels like when I squeeze the latch it almost connects until the last second, then the latch is free, no force behind it.

 

[Exploderpilot]

i know there are pieces of solid wire that go to either latch on the sides, one of them probably just popped off......

 

[Exploderpilot]

see if you can get that piece off, and look for a wire hook hanging around in there not connected to anything.....

 

[youngil006]

Got the liftgate open. Problem is the liftgate lock acuator. Any idea where to get one and how much? I got a 2001 XLT

 

[Rick]

The guy who started this thread: http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=166984 has an Explorer bone yard. Post in that thread for your parts request. He should be able to help you out.