Hey guys, its been a while since I've posted anything but I'm still at it. I'm nearing the finish line on this project and I've got my tailgate put back together. It worked fine originally, a bit stiff but closed like a tailgate should.

Now to get it to close I have to open the handle, close the tailgate and release the handle. In other words can't just slam it.

Ive lubed everything, I dont see alot of adjustments to be made. The parts all seem to line up as they should.

I was wondering if maybe the plate on the pivot bolt is on backwards and it's just enough pressure to not let the latch compress or if im missing some kind of adjustment. It's all the original parts except the pivot bolt and accompanying plate.

The striker plates and pivot hinges (both on the body) are adjustable, both items have a bit of fore/aft & up/down movement. If your handle assembly and the latches in the tail gate move freely while opening and closing when the tail gate isn’t closed, then its down to adjustment on the body side. Did you happen to replace any of the seals or small rubber stops that are at the gap between the two pieces? If yes, make sure everything is fully seated and in the correct position.

Hmmm, thanks. I didn't know this. I replaced the little rubber bumpers and now my tailgate has to be whacked to latch.