Tailgate linkage replacement

[Marky48170]

I have a 1988 Ranger and the person I got if from used a rope to keep the tailgate from latching on the left side ( broken linkage ). I read in a couple places to remove the 3 Torx screws from the back of the handle to pull the handle foward to get to the plastic clips to release the rods. Once I do that and take the latches off and put on the new linkage how hard is it to get the linkage connected to the handle and make adjustments? I was thinking about buying a kit from LMC.

 

[adsm08]

Take the access plate off the inside of the tail gate and look at what's going on in there before buying anything.

Sometimes the handle breaks, sometimes the rods just stick. Taking the panel off will also help with installation.

 

[Marky48170]

Thats just it on 88's there is no access plate.