Replaced Tailgate, Having Issues.

[Motorider228]

I replaced my tailgate tonight and swapped everything over with no problems. Once I got the tailgate on the truck I noticed that I could not lock or unlock it. The solenoid turns with no issues, and I have a key lock so there is no electrical issue. I assume my alignment is a little off or something, but I can't find any pictures of how things are suppose to contact each other.

Right now the tailgate is locked in the up position and the only way to utilize the handle is to take off the back plate and actuate the internals by hand.

Any help of pictures would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks guys!

 

[powderbrad]

Can you see whats happening with the lock with the back plate off? Maybe that'll give you an idea. It shouldn't be an alignment thing since the lock cylinder is attached the the plate and mechanism, it should be solid enough not to move around.

Ive never had a tailgate apart before so what do I know.

 

[Motorider228]

Thanks for the reply. I tore it apart again today after work and figured out that the locking solenoid actually got bent during the previous impact on the old gate. I had never seen this lock internally before so I had no idea that it was even bent. I straightened the solenoid striking rod out and everything worked how it's supposed too.

I'm glad I didn't pay someone to figure that out!