Unable To Open Tailgate - Car Troubleshooting


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Unable To Open Tailgate

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emackenzie
New User

Jun 17, 2014, 11:05 AM

Post #1 of 4 (1825 views)

Unable To Open Tailgate	Sign In

Hello everyone,

I am new to this website. Unfortunately, I know essentially nothing about vehicles, but am hoping a skilled person might be able to help me with the difficulty I am currently facing.

I have a lovely 1996 Chevy Silverado pick-up truck, whose tailgate cannot open. One of the two rods that connects to the handle has broken. I took a coat hanger and tried to fish it out, but was unsuccessful.

How might I fix this problem so as to alleviate my stress? I am looking forward to your response. Thank you!

Discretesignals
Ultimate Carjunky / Moderator
Discretesignals profile image

Jun 17, 2014, 11:31 AM

Post #2 of 4 (1813 views)

Re: Unable To Open Tailgate	Sign In

Did the retainer that holds the rod to the handle fall apart? Best thing to do is remove the tail gate and then turn it upside down or on its side to get to the end of the rod.

To get the tail gate open, you might be able to slide something into the end to push the latch open. Can you see the latch on the side of the tailgate while your sitting in the bed?

Since we volunteer our time and knowledge, we ask for you to please follow up when a problem is resolved.

(This post was edited by Discretesignals on Jun 17, 2014, 11:38 AM)

emackenzie
New User

Jun 17, 2014, 12:01 PM

Post #3 of 4 (1805 views)

Re: Unable To Open Tailgate	Sign In

Yes, the rod broke off and fell into the inside of the tailgate. I tried using a screw driver to open the latch, but it did not seem to work.

nickwarner
Veteran / Moderator
nickwarner profile image

Jun 17, 2014, 8:31 PM

Post #4 of 4 (1779 views)

Re: Unable To Open Tailgate	Sign In

Try using a magnet on a stick to catch the end of the rod and pull it up so you can pull on it with pliers and open the tailgate.

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