Dumb tailgate question - Slam it or open the handle?

[alvald83]

I tried lubricating the tailgate mechanism but cant get it to close easily. It will close easy if i pull the handle out, but i remember in the old days just slamming the tailgates shut. Nothing seems to be bent but the actual handle is a bit rusty. I picked up a good looking handle at the local wrecking yard but had such trouble getting the little clips off, im not looking forward to replacing it. thanks for your help. Al

[Ranchero50]

I always open the handle.

Jamie

[69rangerf100]

[Florian]

x2

[george worley]

[bluef250]

Why fight it?

[fordman]

i have had both types of tailgates. some you just slam others most others. you use the handle to close it. i think it is a adjustment or wear to the latches that causes the handle having to be used.

[70_F100]

If you keep everything lubed up, you can close it pretty easy without opening the handle.

I've found that mine works fine unless I let the latch mechanisms get dry.

[hazelnut]

If i try to close mine without useing the handle all i get is a bang when it stops at the latches, but if i use the handle its as smooth as a onion.

[flyboy2610]

I always open the handle.

[Caseys71]

Like most other guys here I open the handle before shutting my tail-gate as well, it is lubricated good enough to close without doing it but why slam it if you don't have too .

[Sparx Macgyver]

I open the handle. It won't close otherwise. It also sticks out a bit on the driverside. But only when it's closed.

[ok68crewcab]

I always open the handle, less stress on all the parts including me. I cringe when someone tries to close it by slamming it.

[1967AceStroker]

I always have opened the handle. I even open the handle on my newer truck.

[Big Blue 72]

I always open the handle.