71 GMC tailgate not latching: dead handle?

[72MARIO]

First try soaking the latches with WD40 or Release that should free the latches up. The reason when you pull the handle you feel nothing is becsasue The latched are already pulled in ( the opening position )and when you lift the handle you pull the latched in. Because the latches are already in the open position you will not feel any tension. If lubing them up does not work Loosen the handle from the gate. I think they are 3 1/2 " bolt's. Then remove the latches from the side of the gate there are 2 bolt's I think they are 1/2 or 9/16. The handle has rods that attack to the latches. It's really easy to take apart and reassemble. I just installed all of the original hardware on my freshly painted gate. That was a bit tougher because I did not was to rip the paint off.

I hope that Helps.

MArio