Worn tailgate latch

[Arisdocjk]

Has anyone replaced this latch? The plastic coating has worn off. I think this could be the culprit for the noise I am hearing over bumps. I tried wrapping electrical tape around the striker but the latch just cuts through the tape when it closes.

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[PWillette]

My '21 looks fine. You running a heavy spare or extra weight?

If I remember correctly I believe the striker can be adjusted.

 

[Arisdocjk]

No, just normal Sasquatch tire and wheel.

 

[PWillette]

Just looking at the picture it appears something needs to be adjusted...either the tailgate itself or the striker. Is the striker worn as well?

 

[Brian_B]

I have had a lot of issues with mine - the latch isn't worn, but my tailgate is twisted.

From your photo, I can't tell if that's actual wear or just where the grease has some dirt and is built up.

It took a lot of playing with it, but I finally got it set up so it doesn't rattle. Took a combination of:

- a piece of Tygon hose on the striker hanger (yeah tape or heat shrink just get destroyed)
- adjusting the striker plate
- lubing everything with lithium grease every now and again
- adjusting the tailgate itself at the hinges

Adjusting the tailgate at the hinges was the hardest part, and I'd only go there once everything else has not totally resolved the problem. I'd recommend a body shop if you have one that's willing to take it on... I called my local one and they said "We've never done a Bronco before but we are willing to try, at $200/hr, and it may take us a while..."

The trick to the tailgate alignment was to leave the spare tire on - use a hydraulic table (or something similar) underneath the spare to support the tailgate, and then shimmy it around to get it where you need it. Be prepared to do a lot of iterations to get it just right. Took me several hours and a lot of gray hair before I figured it out.

 

[Arisdocjk]

Yep, it’s worn. No plastic left. Just metal to metal contact. I will try the hose on the striker. Thanks!

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