66 Bronco Liftgate Handle

[Smitty17]

I have a 66 Bronco wagon with the separate lift gate handle and lock. The 2 screws that hold the handle to the lift gate are loose but are blocked by the handle. How do I remove the handle to tighten the screws? Thanks!

 

[WILDHORSES]

Welcome to classic, there should be a plate on the back you can remove to access the hardware.

Jim

 

[Smitty17]

Thanks Jim. I'm am looking forward to learning a lot from this site. I found the plate on the back and removed it. I saw where the handle shaft comes through the mechanism but could not figure out what holds the shaft/handle in the mechanism. I understand this handle setup is unique the the 1966 model and the screws that hold the handle in on 67 and newer models are not hidden behind the handle.

 

[Pa PITT]

Smitty17... Welcome aboard . This sight has so many great people in towe. Someone on here can help you ... with any thing ...
... Welcome ..

 

[okie4570]

 

[Smitty17]

Thanks all. I’m out of town for a few days but when I get back I’ll post a few pics for clarity. I’m already learning! Mine is a U15. Not sure of the born on date, but it was delivered I believe in April of 1966. I am the 2nd owner. It was included with the cabin we bought in 1999 and has 34xxx original miles on the 289 engine. Just now got it running and am trying to fix a few little issues.

 

[frenchy]

Welcome, turn the handle like your going to open it and you should be able
to get a screwdriver in them to tighten them.

frenchy

 

[WILDHORSES]

and if you can't turn the handle it's locked. You can disconnect the lock rod if you don't happen to have a key.

Jim

 

[Smitty17]

The handle would only turn slightly. found out the screw on the left had backed out and was catching in the handle. With an ice pick, paint scraper and flat blade screwdriver I was able to get the screw out and turn the handle all the way. I used a vice grip on the back side to hold the handle in the open position, and put the screws back in with some thread lock on them. I'll have to add this to the list of things I check on occasion. And the lock works too!
Thanks again for all your suggestions.

 

[okie4570]

The handle would only turn slightly. found out the screw on the left had backed out and was catching in the handle. With an ice pick, paint scraper and flat blade screwdriver I was able to get the screw out and turn the handle all the way. I used a vice grip on the back side to hold the handle in the open position, and put the screws back in with some thread lock on them. I'll have to add this to the list of things I check on occasion. And the lock works too!
Thanks again for all your suggestions.

Wow that’s great! Bronco issues don't aren't usually so easily resolved lol.

 

[Howard2x4x4]

I am the 2nd owner. It was included with the cabin we bought in 1999 and has 34xxx original miles on the 289 engine.

That's a package deal dreams are made of! Congratulations, and pics of the Bronco AND the cabin would be delightful!

 

[broncochevy]

Pics, pics, pics, we all want pictures!