Tailgate components - removal and refitting
Lock barrel
1 Open and support the tailgate.
2 Unclip and detach the tailgate trim panel.
3 Unclip and detach the rod from the plastic lever.
Tailgate lock barrel clip (A), cylinder (B) and retainer (C)
4 Slide the lock retainer along so that its exposed large aperture aligns with the lock barrel, then remove the retainer and extract the lock unit and pad from the tailgate.
5 Refitting is a reversal of the removal procedure.
Latch
6 Proceed as described in paragraphs 1 to 3.
7 Undo the three screws and remove the latch unit, together with the lever and rod.
Tailgate latch and securing screws
8 Refit reversing the removal procedure. Check that the latch is fitted so that the rod and lever are in alignment with the end of the lock barrel.
Latch remote release
9 A remotely controlled, electrically operated tailgate release is fitted to certain later models. The main component is a solenoid/thermal switch assembly, which is only supplied complete (even though only one section of the assembly to be renewed may be faulty).
10 Remove the latch assembly.
11 Remove the solenoid fixing screws and unhook the operating rod, then withdraw the solenoid assembly.
12 Refitting is a reversal of removal, but make sure that the operating rod is securely engaged in the nylon actuator.
Striker
13 Open and support the tailgate.
14 Make an outline marking around the striker to provide an alignment guide when refitting it.
15 Undo the two retaining bolts and remove them, together with the washers, then withdraw the striker.
16 Refit in the reverse order to removal. Check that the striker is correctly aligned with the previously made outline marking before fully tightening the retaining bolts. Strut (damper unit)
17 Open the tailgate and support it with a prop or get an assistant to support it.
18 Using a screwdriver as shown,
Tailgate damper strut detachment
prise free and release the strut retaining peg at each end and remove the strut by pulling it free from the joints.
19 Refit in the reverse order to removal.