Introduction: How to Replace a Tailgate Handle on a 1998-2011 Ford Ranger Pickup Truck

By 1A Auto
About: Known as 1ATony on the internet, I handle all of the marketing for 1A Auto Parts, a family owned national retailer of high quality auto parts. I've been in the automotive industry for the better part of my lif…
1A Auto shows you how to repair, fix, change or replace a broken or snapped off tailgate handle. This video is applicable to 1998-2011 Ford Ranger models. The actual vehicle shown is a 2004 Ford Ranger. You will first learn how to remove your existing tailgate handle, and then install a replacement.

To watch this repair being done, please watch the full video below:



Video Source: http://www.1aauto.com/content/video/how-to-replace-a-tailgate-handle-on-a-1998-2011-ford-ranger-pickup-truck

Tools Needed:

  T27 Torx Bit and Driver
  10mm Socket and Ratchet
  Penetrating Oil
  White Grease

Step 1: Remove Tailgate Liner and Access Panel Covering the Handle

Remove eight T27 Torx bolts from the inside of the tailgate to remove the liner. Take the liner up and off of the tailgate. Remove the access panel covering the handle mechanism. The panel should come right off because the bolts were also holding it on.

Step 2: Remove the Two 10mm Nuts Holding the Tailgate Handle in Place and Then Pull Handle Out

With a socket and ratchet remove the two 10mm nuts from the tailgate handle. Pull the handle down and out of the vehicle. This is how you remove the tailgate handle. These handles often break because the inside mechanism gets stuck or frozen.

Step 3: Before Installing New Handle, Spray Penetrating Oil Onto the Mechanism and Latches on Either Side and Apply White Grease

Before you install the new handle, spray a good amount of penetrating oil onto the mechanism and latches on either side to free them up and then apply some white grease to insure that everything continues to move freely.

Step 4: Put New Handle Into Tailgate and Secure It With the Two 10mm Nuts

Feed the new tailgate handle replacement up into the tailgate, lining the studs up with the holes. Secure the handle with the two 10mm nuts and tighten with the socket and ratchet.

Step 5: Reinstall Tailgate Liner and Access Panel Covering the Handle

Place the access panel and liner back into position and secure with the eight T27 Torx bolts.

That is how to replace a tailgate handle on 1998-2011 Ford Ranger models.