Tailgate handle replacement

[RodBarnes]

Just wondering if anyone here has replaced their tailgate handle with one of the after-market metal ones. Mine is broken and I'd prefer a metal one since (I assume) it will last longer than the plastic one.

Some of the sites I've found (like this one http://www.thefind.com/cars/info-ford-ranger-new-tailgate) talk about how the metal ones are "smaller" but "work fine". This site (http://www.car-stuff.com/mmparts/ford-ranger/tailgate_handle.html) seems to have a metal replacement but doesn't actually say that; it just looks like it.

If you'd replaced yours, I'd appreciate learning from your experience. Thanks.

 

[wizkid00104]

I did mine with a junkyard one. Both were metal. Are you sure its not plastic coated metal?

Also, I'd order one from LMC Truck if you want a nice one. I am not a fan of the generic style auto parts web site. Go to www.lmctruck.com and check their Ranger catalog.

 

[wizkid00104]

This is the page you need: http://www.lmctruck.com/icatalog/fr/full.aspx?Page=27

Hope this helps.

 

[flyingbrick]

I swapped my plastic one for a metal I got off a 96 in the JY. It just bolts up and looks fine.

 

[RodBarnes]

Yep, definitely plastic. You can see the two pieces where it broke. Plus, if you do a search for it, you'll find the OEM is ABS plastic. 'Best I can confirm, at least the 2002-2003 had this plastic handle not sure about other years.

I went to the link you provided and ordered the steel one. Thanks for the tip.