IT WON'T OPEN! Fixing A Stuck Tailgate (First Gen Dodge Ram)

Fixing a stuck or broken tailgate is easy! See how I did it! This works on Dodge, Chevy and Ford trucks! Subscribe for more awesome videos featuring #TheOldDodge... my 1987 Dodge Ram D150!
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Parts and Supplies Used In The Video (paid links):
1. Dorman 75450 Door Lock Rod Clips amzn.to/3gXtFFA
2. Haynes Repair Manual amzn.to/2Z4Kd8G
3. Lubricant Spray amzn.to/3jHPURG
4. Synthetic Grease amzn.to/3hXXOFZ
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

[@newcreation2521]

I have a 1988 D100 with the same paint scheme as yours. Hopefully, in the future my truck will look as good as yours. My truck needs this exact repair and your video was exactly what I needed to see to make it happen. Thank you so much for posting this! Liked and subscribed!

[@AmericaFirstKorey]

Same issue happened to my 77' a month ago. Popped the rod back in place, lasted one pull (due to clip being broken); but internally it looks the same. Thanks for posting, saved me a lot of effort trying to find the correct kit or clip to replace it with. Like anything with these older trucks, purchase multiples while they are available. These parts won't be produced forever.

[@n8rm]

Great video but I’m having an issue where my rod isn’t connected to one of the outer sides, and I can’t see if it needs to be “hooked” or “clamped” or what to get it reattached.

[@2500mike]

Love that truck. Nice little fix!

[@itshomelife]

Quick and easy project. Thanks for sharing!

[@alias3020]

Thanks for the detailed high quality video! Great looking truck!

[@MultiTacofish]

Thanks for all these great Dodge videos. Very helpful!!

[@johnnycaldwell8281]

Dude I love the vids my 1990 has been in the family since new and your series has helped breath new life in to my rusty old truck.

[@spencergrundy6588]

Thanks for the tips! I have My Grandpa's 82 Dodge Ram D150 \6 custom 4spd manual. And I'm in the process of restoring Her to get back on the road again! Yet again thanks for the tips, keep up the great work!!

[@zachc7454]

i have this exact problem with my 87 and now it’s fixed with the help of your video thanks!! awesome video!

[@mikeconan8048]

Love your truck man

[@rogerlangley9459]

Thanks for the video Jason. Just scored a 1976 D100 318 4 spd MOPAR!

[@steventurner4381]

I have a 87 dodge d100 and these videos help alot with repairs

[@dancanal3201]

Love your videos. I have a 1988 W100. You helped me fix my tail gate. Never opened so easy. I'm having issues with my instrument cluster. I removed the voltage limiter and replaced with an electronic version I built. But my gauges still aren't accurate. Thanks for your help.

[@kbawlz1]

This was super helpful! I just got my '87 RAM tailgate back together with two new clips as both were pretty much trashed! The hardest part was getting the three bolts out. Ugh.

[@arturocruz1993]

Gunna tackle mine this weekend and hopefully fix it. The lower pivot part of mine are broken also.

[@prestonprideaux2946]

Once again You’ve helped when I didn’t think anybody else good, I’ve been using these stupid plastic rod ends because I wasn’t able to find the correct clips but thanks to you I ordered them and just put them in.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Nice. Yeah it was hard to find info on those for me too.

[@samuelhelderman]

Thank you. I’m thinking this might work for my 87 dodge Dakota!

[@aletademarco4155]

going to try this on my 1996 Ram. Thanks!

[@manishgurung4139]

Subscribed the channel today. Discovered the channel after watching the yard videos. Moving out of your old house really touched my heart. Love from Nepal 🇳🇵

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Thanks Manish!

[@noedominguez1769]

Awesome! I didn’t know it was that easy

[@joemecca8324]

Easy to watch, easy to understand, now, let’s see if I can do it. Thanks. J

[@kymopar]

very informative..thank you!

[@nikerailfanningttm9046]

My 87’ D150 Long Bed had this problem, thank god for this video!

[@JasonExplainsThings]

You're very welcome!

[@dailydrive8039]

Nice!! More dodge video!!

[@worshipsalinas93]

Def keep these videos coming they’ve helped so much since I purchased my 1990 d150! My Hood doesn’t close all the way cause the good latch and the cable release. It would be awesome if you can make a video about how to replace those!

[@FortisNome]

Please make that video!

[@Liam-wp1cm]

Love watching the videos man, got a 84’ Dodge myself and it’s good seeing how to fix different things. Keep up the great work.

[@austinsilvis2785]

what size truck? and if you dont mind me asking have you had to drop the trans at all for anything?

[@Liam-wp1cm]

@@austinsilvis2785 it’s a d150 and never had any problems with it

[@waggitnshaggit6592]

Thanks man😊

[@rickft.awwwqtyyyhhvvxxmmif2529]

i got a '87 dodge d150 so this helps alot

[@derekalgeo1222]

Thanks for the video! Been dealing with this with my 1985 d150 prospector since I got it. It's really in great condition so it has been bothering me

[@willturnagain9853]

My 83 dodge d150 handle doesn’t work as well so I appreciate this video.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Nice. It's an easy fix.

[@horaciocenteno4419]

Very Good ❤

[@jacquelinwood2542]

Thanks for the video! I have an ‘87 d150 and of course the clip decides to break shortly before we move... I tried taking the handle out but it won’t come out because the tailgate’s been dented on the back side so it’s hitting the lip of the opening. I was however able to see which side was broken by looking up under the handle and then removing the latch of the side that needs replaced to access the end of the rod. I wasn’t able to find a clip that works so I’ll have to order it. But at least I know how to fix it now and how to unlatch it until it’s fixed!

[@venegasvenegas2380]

Hermosa ram muchísimas gracias 👍

[@grneyeddragonfly]

Thanks for the video appreciate it 🙏 I have a 95 Dodge Dakota and my tailgate latch wont open because a rope got closed carelessly in by a family member, do you have any ideas on how to get it out so I can use my tailgate properly again? Thank you in advance for your time and help!

[@larryjessup-kt7rt]

1976 d 100 can’t get the 3 screws loose from inside tailgate..used penatrating oil for a wile ..gotta try fire next..been using needle nose plyers to pull one rod to let😂 tail gate down..now I know where to get the clips..thanks

[@nbanegro1276]

Jason can you do a video on how to fix the sticky door button on these first gen cummins, or if you have any tips or tricks, thanks.

[@thomaswalter6230]

Love the vids and the intro music 😉

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Thanks!

[@zb7653]

thats next on my list thanks for the video wiper link bushings and freeing up the wiper mounts as they tend to age would make a great how to video if your truck might need it 👍🏻

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Great idea Zack. I'll add it to the list.

[@zb7653]

Jason Explains Things i just replaced mine and found out the wiper mounts are kind of rusted inside hard to turn i just pressure washed them and sprayed pb plaster in them and turn freely now

[@PNW_Bison]

I was was expecting to see lots of rust under that diamond plating. Glad to see that wasn't the case!

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Pretty obvious the original owner put it on after something pretty big dented the tailgate. Glad the hinge could be tweaked to make it close better. :-)

[@user-vf7zh8fi3c]

Thanks!

[@JasonExplainsThings]

WOAH! This is literally the first and only time someone has done a super thanks! Well Super Thanks back to you!

[@guskovarna3885]

Could you do a video on changing the belt/ pulleys on your dodge ? I’m having a little trouble with mine and would help a lot! Thanks and good luck

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Could happen in the future. I make videos as things pop up.

[@cheeze7704]

It appears my rod has come lose on the hinge side I can feel it dangling. Any advice on how to fix thanks in advance

[@stevehenry2578]

Can you tell me why 1993 D250 px door won't unlock? and how to fix it.? It is so close to the seat you can't get the door panel off>

[@josephnunnally8734]

Lol I fixed the right side installed on my 86 d150 put back on now have to purchase for left side too lol latch only opens halfway

[@tomhoying2323]

hahaha oh man i have the same problem with my '77 ramcharger. thanks for the vid

[@user-my8wc7ld5p]

Do you know if anyone make a locking latch for 70’s Dodge truck tailgate ?

[@AmericaFirstKorey]

72-80 FIRST GEN OWNERS / Just to report - the same kit listed will repair broken driver / passenger door rod clips as well. You don't have to remove the handle to fix this if removing the three screws is a no-go (or bed liner, etc.). If you have an early first-gen, 72-80, you can force the latch open all the way to give you the length you'll need with the rod (ex: few layers of cardboard & flat head screwdriver used as a wedge ) and place a non-marring object to wedge the physical tailgate handle completely open (microfiber towel and handle of large screwdriver work well) where your hands will remain free. It's real tight, you'll need a flashlight, small flat head screwdriver (long shaft) for maneuvering the rod in position over the hole, 'super lube' or equivalent rubbed on the end of the rod for lubrication, and another large shaft, flat head screwdriver for applying downward pressure to get it seat into the new clip hole. Pair of cobra pliers or alternatively, needle nose pliers to rotate the clip, and the small flat head screwdriver to assist in locking it over the rod. Don't expect it to take five minutes, but you can get it done in an hour or so.

[@mrdamppig1395]

Haha love the intro

[@JasonExplainsThings]

My acting skills are second to none! 🧐

[@rocketdog2723]

Hi I have an 87 D250 and I’m missing a tailgate support bar , does anyone know where I can get one , it’s the passenger side

[@SmokeandSteel]

Hey, my strike bolts are missing. Does anybody know if there's a part number for these?

[@MultiTacofish]

Where did you get that diamond plate tailgate protector??? I can’t find one for a dodge anywhere!

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Hey there, it's from the 80's or 90's. Been on the truck most likely since new.

[@wolfrum8230]

Was watching your videos and was wondering on the video you did on the front suspension and steering did you replace the steering shaft order the hood and if so did you happen to video it? Mine is really loose but all the stuff you replaced is good but the steering rod is really loose on the steering box. Thanks in advance on any info about this issue.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Sorry I didn’t mess with the steering shaft at all.

[@wolfrum8230]

I guess it is a weak spot from what I have investigated on the subject. But thanks for all the great diy videos

[@eddydodgeandtruck614]

this video is very informative I now know how to dismantle my broken tailgate handle. I am in France and it is difficult to find this handle, would you have any links to give me to find this handle, thank you. I follow you from France and I really like your videos. it helps me a lot for my 1988 d150 😉👍

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Hi Eddy, the parts I used (clips) are linked in the description. As for the handle itself that'd be something you'd need to search for on eBay or in junk yards.

[@eddydodgeandtruck614]

@@JasonExplainsThings thank you for your reply

[@alexgoodman2780]

any suggestions for an 89 dodge dakota?

[@JasonExplainsThings]

I’d imagine the general procedure is the same

[@ebifurai415]

wow i love you

[@blueduster74]

Mine wasn’t, got it open and now it won’t latch at all. Hopefully the same issue. I’ve done this on the doors.

[@danamiller9080]

U lucked out...1989 dakota locked close...i had to drill and cut an access out of the tailgate to unlock latch from inside...the clip broke at the latch... It would have been nice if Dodge had put in a couple access panels... repairs on this year of the Dakota have been a nightmare .

[@AmericaFirstKorey]

Imagine trying to fix the 'newer' Dodge / RAM trucks in 30 - 40 years.

[@josepena5164]

Where did you get the tailgate cap?

[@JasonExplainsThings]

It was on the truck when I bought it.

[@basicdudestuff5119]

Can you make a video of your roof tent and how you set it up on truck please!

[@JasonExplainsThings]

It’s featured in this video. I honestly can’t really make a new camping video right now because it’s fall and I’m about to take it off for the season. kzbin.info/www/bejne/pYCbXmdpptGappo

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Here’s a photo of it in use this summer: instagram.com/p/CBtZ6hfJsQn/?igshid=1n5yrue3kyacl

[@basicdudestuff5119]

Okay no worries. Thank you

[@butterdogg4937]

🎉🎉🎉

[@johndykhuis6890]

Sneaky little Grom hiding in the background.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

👍 It’s my brother-in-laws but I might make a video about it.

[@MAViz270]

I just did this to my 1989 dodge the plastic clip cost less than 2 Dollars for the pack. Amazing how a 25 cent clip can break off and the tailgate won’t open

[@NilesProductions]

Hamburgers!

[@abigailjoseph2690]

I have an 88 and the tailgate won’t open. I have to jump on the bed and unlatch it manually cause I’m short. It’s now a project truck.

[@salsasamuri]

I lost the one clip that fits inside the tailgate now I gotta get another 😭😭😭

[@brandensandler3494]

So I gave a like how do I thumbs up?

[@jasonphillips3865]

Well, what do here in the UK when we are faced with a conundrum like this is that we reach for a hammer. If that fails, we go get a bigger hammer! 😂😂

[@weaslemin7728]

I'll be damned I had the exact same clips break