71 GMC tailgate not latching: dead handle? - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

TomShilling · 03-11-2005, 08:08 PM

First order of the repair list: fix latch on tailgate on the 71 GMC. It is all stock and original, and the handle on the tailgate doesn't seem to have anything moving. It fits snug against the bedside when closed, but nothing latches. It'll drop open with a BANG when driving down the road!! I'll dig into it tomorrow, but are there some common fixes you could share with me? It seems like it would be a simple latching mechanism, but I may have to order some parts...
Thanks for any help and tips!
Tom (My first truck at 42 years old) Shilling

03-11-2005, 08:08 PM	#1
TomShilling Registered User Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: Spartanburg, SC Posts: 42	71 GMC tailgate not latching: dead handle? First order of the repair list: fix latch on tailgate on the 71 GMC. It is all stock and original, and the handle on the tailgate doesn't seem to have anything moving. It fits snug against the bedside when closed, but nothing latches. It'll drop open with a BANG when driving down the road!! I'll dig into it tomorrow, but are there some common fixes you could share with me? It seems like it would be a simple latching mechanism, but I may have to order some parts... Thanks for any help and tips! Tom (My first truck at 42 years old) Shilling

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