To open the tailgate on a Ford Ranger with a broken handle You will need a T-30 TorxBit and a ratchet. On the backside of the tailgate there are 8 bolts that need to be removed. Once the bolts are out, the tailgate panel can be moved out of the way. Behind the panel You'll see the latching mechanism, there's two rods going to either side of the tailgate, if You clamp some vice grips on them and pull them towards the center it will release the tailgate. To remove the handle assembly You'll need a 10mm socket to remove the two nuts and pull the handle off from the rear. A replacement handle can be found for under $30.
Jason M.
April 10, 2020
Grab the tailgate latch handle and try pulling it to the open position. Spray a lubricant into the handle and let it soak in. Grab a screwdriver and move the side of the tailgate where it attaches to the truck side via the hinges. Then drop the tailgate down, inspect the hinge and rod, and spray them down with the lubricant to prevent them from sticking together in the future. Close the tailgate and wipe off any excess lubricant.
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