Tailgate latch/handle exploded view???

[LEB Ben]

Does anyone out there have an exploded view of where the tailgate latch rod connects to the 'handle mechanism' for a 77? Some how my left latch rod got disconnected from the handle, and I have no clue what's going on in there. I assume there is some sort of clip or something that keeps the rod in place and after 32 years, let loose. Thanks in advance.

 

[blacksnapon]

theres a couple of those plastic clips, that you put the rod into the hole, then rotate and clip down to the rod (same as inside the door).

 

[LEB Ben]

Thanks...so is it safe to assume that it's an easier fix for someone with smaller hands and more patience than myself...haha. Any idea where to find these clips...the typical resources JBG, DC, etc?


Edit...nevermind, found them:

http://broncograveyard.com/bronco/i-24525_tailgate_latch_rod_clip__each.htm



But seriously, with working in such a tight space, any tips?

 

[1985 Ford F-150]

Yeah smaller hands are better. The last time I had to do the 85 we had to get em from Ford.

 

[blacksnapon]

Not sure. You might try the parts store. Im going on memory here, so bear with me. I think your tailgate has a big panel on the inside right? If so, thats the access to the latch. If not, there is probably 3 or 4 screws on the inside center that will drop the latch down where you can eyeball it.

 

[LEB Ben]

Yeah...it's the screws...and I found the clip on JBG. Thanks for the help

 

[blacksnapon]

Yeah...it's the screws...and I found the clip on JBG. Thanks for the help

Anytime! Shoot, I might need some muscle someday!

 

[LEB Ben]

Anytime! Shoot, I might need some muscle someday!

Just say the word...and I'll be there...haha.

 

[73F100Shortbed]

Ben when I fixed mine I unbolted the latch so it would hang a little bit to put the clips in. You can get clips to fix it at Autozone, O'Reillys, etc. in the Help! section.

 

[m78]

Do you still need a diagram

 

[LEB Ben]

Ben when I fixed mine I unbolted the latch so it would hang a little bit to put the clips in. You can get clips to fix it at Autozone, O'Reillys, etc. in the Help! section.

Alright...thanks

Do you still need a diagram

Not really...but if anyone has them readily available, I never turn them down. But really, if it's any trouble, don't worry about it.

 

[m78]

I've probably got it but I would have to scan, load to PB then post

 

[LEB Ben]

I've probably got it but I would have to scan, load to PB then post

Then don't worry about it. I'm sure if I actually look hard enough, I probably have it in my literature somewhere. Just didn't know if someone like Dennis would already have it hosted somewhere and with a couple clicks could post it up. But thanks.

 

[Mil1ion]

 

[LEB Ben]

Perfect...thanks Dennis...now I know exactly what I'm looking at

 

[1985 Ford F-150]

It sucks to do Ben at least it did when we had to do the 85.

 

[Mil1ion]

They sell those clips at body shop supply houses.
Maybe a Pico Product

I have a link here somewhere.

D

 

[bucks77ford]

Yes, that is a tight place to work. If a clip broke, you may need to take things apart and clean things up so the tailgate opens a bit more smoothly.

 

[LEB Ben]

Yes, that is a tight place to work. If a clip broke, you may need to take things apart and clean things up so the tailgate opens a bit more smoothly.

Alright...thanks for the tip Buck. To be honest, I think I'd rather keep replacing $1 clips than taking that thing apart...haha. But you're right, over the last few months, I did notice some binding...so I may wanna bite the bullet.

 

[73F100Shortbed]

Alright...thanks for the tip Buck. To be honest, I think I'd rather keep replacing $1 clips than taking that thing apart...haha. But you're right, over the last few months, I did notice some binding...so I may wanna bite the bullet.

When mine was binding a little I just unbolted the latches and sprayed alot of white lube on them and it worked for me without having to remove much.