Body - Tailgate Handle/Latch Binds/Hard To Open
TECHNICALBulletin No.: 09-08-66-009A
Date: May 25, 2010
Subject: Intermittent Pickup Box Endgate Latch Binding, Hard to Open, Does Not Open (Re-Work Endgate Latch Rods)
Models:
2009 Chevrolet Silverado
2009 GMC Sierra
Supercede:
This bulletin is being revised to remove the endgate latch handle re-work. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 09-08-66-009 (Section 08 - Body and Accessories).
Condition
Some customers may comment that the endgate is binding, is hard to open or does not open at all. Applying excessive upward force to the endgate latch handle may allow the endgate to open as designed.
Cause
This condition may be caused by a fitment concern with the endgate latch rods in the endgate assembly.
Correction
Re-work the right endgate right latch rod to increase the handle travel. Follow the re-work procedure below.
1. Remove the endgate latch handle bezel. Refer to Pickup Box Endgate Latch Handle Bezel Replacement in SI.
2. Remove the right endgate latch. Refer to Endgate Latch Replacement in SI.
3. Remove the right endgate latch rod. Refer to Pickup Box Endgate Latch Rod Replacement in SI.
4. Remove the foam (1) from the latch rod.
5. Measure the overall length of the rod. Note the measurement. The following steps will instruct how to reduce the overall length of the rod by 3-4 mm (0.118-0.157 in).
6. Using a suitable tool, at the center of the rod, bend one leg of the rod towards the center as shown (1). The object is to make one end of the "U" shaped section of the rod close to a 90 degree bend. Take care not the twist the rod as you bend it.
7. Using the same tool, straighten the rod at the other bend shown (1) until the rod is back straight. Take care not to twist the rod as you bend it.
8. Inspect the rod standing up on a flat surface as shown. The rod should rest flat on the surface. Minor gapping (1) on the bent leg is acceptable.
9. Inspect the rod laying flat on a flat surface as shown. The rod should rest flat on the surface. Minor gapping (1) on the bent leg is acceptable.
10. Inspect the overall length of the rod as shown. The overall length of the rod should be 3-4 mm (0.118-0.157 in) shorter. If the length is not correct, rebend the rod using the steps above to achieve the correct length.
11. Reinstall the foam (1) to the latch rod.
12. Reinstall the right endgate latch rod. Refer to Pickup Box Endgate Latch Rod Replacement in SI.
13. Reinstall the right endgate latch. Refer to Endgate Latch Replacement in SI.
14. Reinstall the endgate latch handle bezel. Refer to Pickup Box Endgate Latch Handle Bezel Replacement in SI.
Warranty Information
For vehicles repaired under warranty, use the table.
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