Tailgate Handle Assembly

[Bandit130]

Finally got it out. This was a BEAR to get out. Hardest part was removing left side rod.Also had to remove tailgate band for more room. Found the reason I had free play in the handle. Dirt and years of outside gremlins was binding at the handle and cam pivot point that both rods connect to. There is no spring on the handle itself which was my brain was thinking there was/should be. When working correctly, springs on latches will pull handle up correctly. This was the first one for me, so definitely a learning experience.

Now...on to the cleaning, lubricating, painting and hopefully re-assembling.

Will post pics before and after cleaning and painting when completed.