Tailgate Trouble

[Blaney1]

I recently recieved an old bronco from a relative that no longer could restore it. This vehicle has never seen a garage and was used as a plow truck. For being treated like this the components actually work rather well. The only thing so far that has gone bad is the tailgate *knock on wood*. For some reason the tailgate will not open or even budge for that matter. Any advice on what could be wrong here?

 

[dave67fd]

Does the handle move freely or is it binding? If binding, my guess would be the latches are frozen. Soak them with penetrating oil as well as the two hinge points and inside the handle.

 

[slim811]

Handyman where are you in PA? Is that your recently received 77 posted in your garage?

 

[Blaney1]

Handyman where are you in PA? Is that your recently received 77 posted in your garage?

Yes that was taken a before I brought it home about a year ago.