2007 GMC Sierra Tailgate mechanism clean-up

[Walleye Guy]

I have a 2007 GMC Sierra SLT Crew Cab that I am experiencing difficulties getting the tailgate mechanism to latch. Basically I need to slam it pretty hard 3-5 time to get it to latch and stay latched. I had a similar issue with a 2001 Chevy pick-up. I brought the 2001 to the dealer and they cleaned up the mechanism and it worked great. They charged me close to $100 to do it. Is this something I can do myself? I only see three bolts on the inside of the tailgate. Do I take them out or is there a diferent way to get this done.

Last week I tried put Lithium grease on the mechanisms on eacg side of the tailgate but it didn't help.

Thanks in advance for any expertise.

[jwhjr]

I had the same issue and was able to get it fixed by spraying some JB-80 on the mechanism from the handle. If you look up inside underneath the handle (while lifting it) you can see the 2 parts to spray.

[MNice]

what he ^ said.

[53orbigger]

Same problem here as well. Lift the latch and spray your lubricant of choice under the latch on either side. If you lift the latch and look under it you will see the mechanism we are talking about.

[Walleye Guy]

Thanks guys. I'll try it tonight!

[Loose]

Dont tailgate problems come standard on chevys?

[Jeremy airjer W]

Yup, Chevys, oops, Chevrolets AND Dodges!

[Wildabeast]

I replaced mine a couple of months ago. The mechanism will rust out every few years. Just go to the dealer and get a new one (the part is cheaper at the dealer than at O'Reily's). I think it's about $35. They are very easy to replace, just remove the bolts in the back (two of them, loosen up the other IIRC) and then undo the clips that hold the rods. A plastic spatula can be used to pop the facia off (be fairly careful). All in all it takes less than a half hour even if you don't know what you're doing. The new one will come pre-greased but I also sprayed the non-greased portions of the replacement with Amsoil heavy duty metal protectant which should help with reducing corrosion.

[harvey lee]

I spray mine every other month with JB80 and it keeps it working great.

[Hookmaster]

On my 2004 Silverado I tried penetrating lubricant but it did not work. I took it out and cleaned it up, relubed and it has worked fine. Of course I broke the bezel when putting it back in. I found one on the e bay that was less than half of what the dealer wanted.