Tail Gate Maintenance

[oasis04]

Does anybody know if there is a rebuild/maintenance kit available for the tailgate latch for a 97 f350.

My latch release handle is very stiff and a spring doesn't keep the passenger side catch in the open position so I have to make sure it is open before I close the tail gate. Maybe I can take the cover off and lube the linkage?

[CHUCK]

yea, I'd try to do that 1st...b4 I went into swapping parts. Probably get the parts from LMC, if they exist.

[drstephennix]

He said "lube the linkage"
Sorry, just made me laugh

[oasis04]

I got a chuckle as I typed it.

Chuck just add this to your to do list for next weekend.

[ryandamo]

try spraying some white lithium grease in it

[oasis04]

Originally Posted by ryandamo

try spraying some white lithium grease in it

This is going to be my first course of action. See if I can improve it with out taking cover off. If I take the cover off I will post up some pics.

[alberta 7.3]

Take off the cover, lube everything. I can't remember if the rods are ajustable or not.

[elrojo63]

I don't think the rods are adjustable. My tailgate has those same problems and anytime somebody use the truck or unloads without be there they jam is shut and i have to take the cover off anyways so i don't even keep it on.

white lithium grease helps things, but the main problem is stuff bending slightly in the mechanism in the center and taking more finiking to get it to work right.

I'd say weld your own tailgate up. The mechanic at my uncle's farm has welded some up for their trucks and they're pretty sweet and can take any abuse. Mine is pushed down in the center from loading barrels of WVO