90 Ranger Tailgate

[Leonm1645]

Hello I have the same problem most people If not all people have with the tailgate on their first gen Ranger were I can pull the latch all the way up and it not open. I know the trick of putting a screwdriver on both sides to open the tailgate, but was wondering if there is any way to repair it by replacing the latch or the rods and if there is how to do so . I know there are little tabs looking things on the bottom that look like they can fip to take it apart but don't want to try and mess it up. I know there are the three star head screws at the top holding the latch there are the only screws left i have all ready taking the screws out holding the back plate with the ford logo on the both right so I could get the FORD stamped metal. And just need some help cant find any info on it anywhere.

 

[fangotango306]

There should be a large panel on the tailgate inside the bed you can remove to get at the hangle and rods.

 

[saskbill]

There should be a large panel on the tailgate inside the bed you can remove to get at the hangle and rods.

The removable cover on the inside face of the tailgate was introduced (with a restyled tailgate to match the new bodylines) in 1993, possibly because of all the angry phone calls and letters about servicing the Gen1 and Gen2 tailgates.

Those of us with older tailgates watch with interest to see what tips and tricks old-timers (hell, even creative young whipper-snappers) might have to adjust the older type tailgates that lack such a panel. (laparoscopy?)

 

[Elutheros]

I just worked on my 1991 and 1992 Ranger tailgates: white lithium grease sprayed liberally on the latches and also on the mechanism that the release handle moves made them both work much better.

 

[fangotango306]

The removable cover on the inside face of the tailgate was introduced (with a restyled tailgate to match the new bodylines) in 1993, possibly because of all the angry phone calls and letters about servicing the Gen1 and Gen2 tailgates.

Those of us with older tailgates watch with interest to see what tips and tricks old-timers (hell, even creative young whipper-snappers) might have to adjust the older type tailgates that lack such a panel. (laparoscopy?)

Yeah i looked at my old mans first gen today and realized my mistake.