Does a tailgate have a latch on both sides?

A tailgate latch is made up of eight pieces. There is the latch handle, the rotating latch mechanism, two rods, two panel latches, one on each side, and the latches’ recesses on either side of the tailgate. All related components can be accessed from the inside panel of the tailgate.

Where are the latches on a tailgate?

There are two latches, one on either side of the tailgate. Over time, these latches get coated with dirt and rust. When the lubrication is gone and the latch sticks, the increased effort required to open the tail gate stresses the cast iron arms on the handle.

Why are the handles on my tailgate cracking?

The tailgate handles is not the issue here, it is actually the latches themselves. There are two latches, one on either side of the tailgate. Over time, these latches get coated with dirt and rust. When the lubrication is gone and the latch sticks, the increased effort required to open the tail gate stresses the cast iron arms on the handle.

How do you remove a tailgate handle from a truck?

Remove the clips from the tailgate latch rods on each side of the tailgate handle by prying them off with a flat-blade screwdriver. Set the clips aside. Release the tailgate handle assembly from the tailgate by lifting the latch rods from the handle.

How do you open the tailgate on a Ford F150?

Unscrew the eight bolts at the top and back of the tailgate with a socket wrench. Pull the panel from the tailgate. Locate the latch assembly in the center of the tailgate. Pull the rod that is attached to the latch with a pair of channel locks.

How do you fix a broken tailgate handle on a truck?

Carefully pry the plastic trim surround on the tailgate handle on the front of the tailgate with a door panel removal tool. Pull the surround away from the tailgate. Be careful not to scratch the surrounding paint. Turn the locking clips that hold the two tailgate latch rods counterclockwise. Pull the rods sideways from the tailgate handle.

Where is the tailgate on a pickup truck?

Pickup trucks are very useful to owners needing extra cargo space that a car or sport-utility vehicle cannot match. The large cargo bed at the rear of the vehicle is accessed by a tailgate, a large, hinged door that is the full width of the cargo bed.

Where is the latch on a Ford F150?

Locate the latch assembly in the center of the tailgate. Pull the rod that is attached to the latch with a pair of channel locks. This releases the tailgate.