Tailgate (or Door) Latch Cleaning
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Latches that have not been properly maintained may need deep cleaning to restore proper operation. Soak in solvent (naphtha, kerosene, or deodorized mineral spirits - NOT gas or diesel) until the old caked grease is soft enough to scrub out using tooth/bore brushes. When dry, wash in warm soapy water to remove any remaining mud, and dry thoroughly (sunlight for a few hours, or a heat gun for a few minutes). Then apply a flowable grease sparingly to the internal mechanisms while operating the jaws & release repeatedly. The upper jaw of the left latch may not fully open without assistance due to the follower for the safety switch, but this is normal and NOT a problem to be fixed. When installed & aligned, the strike bolt opens that jaw fully.

Owner caption March 2024 · Photo 0 of 5000