Tailgate Latch

VINCETHESWEDE

MEMBER
1992 FORD RANGER
6 CYL
4WD
MANUAL
133,000 MILES

How do I open the tailgate when the handle doesn't
open it. I realize I have to fix some linkage rod problem, but I think I need to get it open first, or maybe I should take out the 3 torx screws on the inside of the bed on the tailgate to get it open.

or maybe I should stick screw drivers from the inside of the bed where the lrods come out into the strike plate?

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,179 POSTS

Remove the torx bolts on the inside of the tailgate handle. You will see two rods, one from each side, attached to the handle. If you pull the rods, it will release the tailgate.

My guess is either you have a broken handle or the linkage is disconnected on at least one side.

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Saturday, September 18th, 2010 AT 10:31 PM

SAGRADAMUERTE

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0 POST

This is not for a 1992 Ranger, which does not have an access panel?

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Thursday, November 19th, 2020 AT 9:31 AM

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

Are you asking if there is an access panel on the backside of the tailgate? If so, there is not an access panel on these older tailgates. There are bolts under the handle that allows you to remove it. Then the latch/linkage is held in place by the bolts that you access on the backside of the tailgate.

See the attached for pictures of this.

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