Sloppy Tailgate Handle

[TexasAggie09]

Howdy Yall,
I am finally going to tackle fixing my tailgate handle. It has a lot of play in it before it engages and releases the tailgate and requires me pulling up very hard to release it. I removed the tailgate access panel but its still solid where the handle is. What the best way to get into the handle to attempt to address what is so loose? Thanks!

[TexasAggie09]

Disregard! Turns out the company who did the bedliner put masking tape over the hole where the handle mechanism is and sprayed over it, giving the appearance it was solid...until I poked it with a knife. Thanks anyway!

[87 rebel]

while you are their use a good spray lubricanr to lube all the moving parts. it will open like BUTTER!!!

[95dieselsmoke]

Nice easy fix. Cant beat it.