Lift Gate woes

[SmokEaterHD]

So I'm still working on the problem with my life gate on my 4Runner. The door won't latch. It seems as there is a return spring missing from the latch mechanism itself. However, I also noticed when I removed the cover that there is a plastic piece that slides along a metal rod. If I push it towards the driver's door I can move the latch release cable when I pull the handle on the lift gate. However, if I use the key to roll down the window it moves that plastic piece the other direction and then I lose control of the latch release cable. I've circled the plastic piece in the first pic and it is in the position that the cable works, however, in the second pic you can see it has moved (yellow arrow) and I have no control over it when the handle is pulled. A friend looked at it tonight and seems to think there is a piece broken in it. I noted where he thought the broken piece was with the pink arrow. Also, I've noticed I can't lock the door with the key because it will only roll down the window, which, in turn, moves that plastic piece and I again lose control of the cable.

I've been checking out the online sites and that whole mechanism is $170. That is ridiculous so I'm gonna have to go used. But can't seem to find it on anyone's pick and pull sites. I do have a shop I'm gonna go talk to on Monday, but add that plus the $108 they want for the latch and $20 or so for S&H and this is an EXPENSIVE fix for what it is.

If I'm inaccurate in my thinking on what is wrong someone please let me know. I know the latch itself is bad and has to be replaced, but that upper part is throwing me since I've never seen it move when the lift gate was working properly.

 

[Singtoe]

Can't tell anything by your pictures. Wish I could help.

I do have a working latch and cable assembly. You can have it for $60 shipped.