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Tailgate won’t open anymore

tacorancher

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Has anyone found a solution to the tailgate refusing to open consistently? My dealer has already replace the motor once - same issue within a few weeks. I’ve noted it improved a lot when I power washed the bed and the tailgate. Could it be the latches causing friction?
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rijc99

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I’ve been spraying the two latches with break free clp and the groaning noises and refusing to open has gone away. Dealer couldn’t figure out what was the problem but since doing this it’s been working in an acceptable manner.
 

tacorancher

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I’ve been spraying the two latches with break free clp and the groaning noises and refusing to open has gone away. Dealer couldn’t figure out what was the problem but since doing this it’s been working in an acceptable manner.
Awesome - what is “break free clp”?
 

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Don Hoe

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The tailgate, sunroof and removable speaker were the reason I didn't go for the premium package. I can close the tailgate with my pinky finger, just don't see the need for it? Sorry to see all the problems with it?
 

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Mine refused to open cleanly after doing a bunch of dusty trails.

Washed out then sprayed some dry lube into the latches on both sides. Haven't had a problem since.
 

tacorancher

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The tailgate, sunroof and removable speaker were the reason I didn't go for the premium package. I can close the tailgate with my pinky finger, just don't see the need for it? Sorry to see all the problems with it?
No regrets with my trailhunter. This is the only issue I’ve had. And it looks like I’m about to resolve it.
 

tacorancher

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Cleaner, lubricant and protectant. I use Break Free brand on my firearms. Higher quality ones do not attract dirt.
I applied it this morning and it works. I might cancel my dealership appointment.

I assume that after a dusty trail I will need to power wash and reapply?
 

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rijc99

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I applied it this morning and it works. I might cancel my dealership appointment.

I assume that after a dusty trail I will need to power wash and reapply?
Yes. I’ve just cleaned off the latch area and then let it dry in the sun. Typically it gets clean enough while closed for me at a coin op self wash. Just watch the drain hole to make sure it’s draining fully.
 

tacorancher

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Yes. I’ve just cleaned off the latch area and then let it dry in the sun. Typically it gets clean enough while closed for me at a coin op self wash. Just watch the drain hole to make sure it’s draining fully.

I’ve opened and closed it 10 times at least with no issues - I also added the lubricant to the hinges

Do you find that the lubricant attracts the dust or the opposite?
 

kansaswill

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Yep. I live on a gravel road and mine does this 90% of the time. Dealer can’t claim to fix it. It’s going back again on Monday. I’m constantly loading bikes in the bed and it is super frustrating.
 

tacorancher

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Yep. I live on a gravel road and mine does this 90% of the time. Dealer can’t claim to fix it. It’s going back again on Monday. I’m constantly loading bikes in the bed and it is super frustrating.

I think it just feels resistance and thinks there is an object in the way so just needs to be kept clean
 

gfk

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The tailgate, sunroof and removable speaker were the reason I didn't go for the premium package. I can close the tailgate with my pinky finger, just don't see the need for it? Sorry to see all the problems with it?
I bought the premium despite these 3 things. The sunroof i do enjoy 6 months out of the year (in fl) the speaker, stupid. The tailgate i do use the remote to open it but I really don't need that and fear the day it stops working and I just can't get it open.
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