Rear door not closing

[duanebg]

Hey all,

Was just outside at my truck and when I went to open the rear hatch I had a bugger of a time. Had to death grip squeeze before anything happened. Once I got it open and went to shut it it just bounced back. It appears that the locking clasp is moving freely. It's not locking/catching when i close it, and I have it closed with a tie down right now.

Ive checked a few links but they dont seem to be talking about the same problem. So how do I fix this? Is it just the bottom assembly that I need to pull out? Do I have to remove the back panel to get at it all?

Anyway thanks in advance.

 

[matthewb]

I have the same issue, and in my case I am guessing that a spring likely let go in the latching mechanism so the part needs to be replaced. You do have to remove the black panel to change it out as the latching mechanism is all one part including the cable up to the handle mechanism. If you look at a part schematic you will understand what I mean.

Having said all that, if someone else has found an easier cheaper way to fix the latching mechanism I would love to hear it as I have not ordered the part yet.

 

[habanero]

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-gen-t4rs/96047-rear-latch-something-fell.html
Last post has pics of the latching mechanism and the location of the cable inside the hatch. Check up to and including the handle. There are a few places to check to make sure it's all still together though if the latch is floppy that's not a good sign. The latch has 3 bolts holding it onto the hatch.
Getting inside the hatch is not hard, 1 bolt under the hatch pull and pop the panel off its retainers carefully.

 

[that$pit]

Prob not your issue, but check the easy things first. My dogs push the liner all the way to the back, makes it not shut. Had delusions once about keeping a clean car, but the dogs own it

 

[duanebg]

Thanks for the info. Handle still feels good. I'm guessing the part is only available from Toyota...