Tailgate problem

[Beef52751]

I was using my 86 the other day, and couldn't get the tailgate open. i popped it open with a screw driver and looked at it. The driverside latch didn't move when i pulled the handle so i took the latch off and found there was no rod connecting handle to the latch, after taking the tailgate off and shaking it i finally found the rod. My problem is i don't know how it goes back on. One end is a "U" Shape and the other is just a 90* Bend with a plastic clip. Any idea how to put it back on???
Pics would be AWESOME!!!!
Thanks
Beef

 

[Muscleford]

The "U" hook attaches to the latch and the other end attaches to the handle.

 

[straycat]

I was using my 86 the other day, and couldn't get the tailgate open. i popped it open with a screw driver and looked at it. The driverside latch didn't move when i pulled the handle so i took the latch off and found there was no rod connecting handle to the latch, after taking the tailgate off and shaking it i finally found the rod. My problem is i don't know how it goes back on. One end is a "U" Shape and the other is just a 90* Bend with a plastic clip. Any idea how to put it back on???
Pics would be AWESOME!!!!
Thanks
Beef

It is an easy fix for anybody who can use tools to fix this issue. Maybe you need to get a repair manual for your year truck, Bro. Then you will have an idea as what to do if you have any issues. I did that years ago and that manual helped out a lot...like electrical wiring issues. That was the best investment for me on my 83 4x4 Ranger when I upgraded to offroad lighting, CB radios and adding other neat stuff you just got to have...lol

 

[Mark_88]

Maybe you need to get a repair manual for your year truck...

Are you getting a commission on repair manual sales, Bro? lol...

I had the same issue with mine too...however, there was no way I could pick it up and shake it to see what was rattling...if yours weighs as much as mine, remind me not to make fun of you to your face...

As someone said though...the elbow bone's connected to the plastic bone...sort of slips into it...if you've had a look at the plastic connector on your door locks, you'll know how it works...

 

[straycat]

Are you getting a commission on repair manual sales, Bro? lol...

I had the same issue with mine too...however, there was no way I could pick it up and shake it to see what was rattling...if yours weighs as much as mine, remind me not to make fun of you to your face...

As someone said though...the elbow bone's connected to the plastic bone...sort of slips into it...if you've had a look at the plastic connector on your door locks, you'll know how it works...

What, me?? Oooops, sorry, I have to get out to the mail box...another commission check just arrived...the mail guy is hunched over real bad trying to carry my check....lol