Key for Truck Tail Gate

[John S]

Hello, this should be an easy one.

My truck has a lock next to the tailgate handle. I bought my truck used with only an ignition key. My ignition key doesn't even come close fitting into or operating the tailgate lock.

So........I went and talked to my local Ford dealer about getting a replacement key. They said they were sure it was the same key as my ignition key and there must be something wrong with my lock assembly. I took the tailgate all apart and removed the tailgate lock. I confirmed the length of the lock is about half the length of my key.

So, what gives? Did these trucks come with a special key, just for the tailgate?

Thanks,
John

[alberta 7.3]

Somewhere in the trucks life the tailgate was probably replaced, and the lock was not swapped. I have the same problem on my 2000 F350

[BigRed02]

Sorry man, my key works for mine. I'm wondering if the previous owner switched out with a new lock; previous damage to original or tampered with the old Do you have the original key with the Ford insignia, or is it a copy. Well even my copy works Sorry not much help

[Super Kaz]

The key only sticks so far in. When I got mine it would not work either. I thought about just replacing the handle with a non locking one. Before i did though I shot some lube in there and it started working. Have you tried that? Or do you know for sure it was replaced at one point.

[NCHornet]

The tailgates are some of the hotest and easiest parts to steal off a PSD. I bet your original was stolen at some point in the past. Any decent locksmith can make a key for you.
NCH

[John S]

I didn't know that the key wasn't supposed to go all the way into the lock, that threw me off. If that is the way it is supposed to be then I will lube the hell out of it and see what happens.

I really think that it is original equipment and not a replacement. I may even remove the locking mechanism and soak it in oil if necessary.

Thanks a lot for the advice.

John

[Hank]

Just checked mine. The key went all the way in. Sorry.