tailgates dropping unexpectantly?

[slemmer]

On my '05 Sierra, I noticed on several occasions where my tailgate drops for no reason. I'd be driving along and all of a sudden I would hear the gate drop, forcing me to stop the truck quickly before I lose my tools. I know I've closed the tailgate and jerked it to make sure it was latched. Is there something wrong with the way the '05 latches are made?

 

Thanks

[lrymal]

...I know I've closed the tailgate and jerked it to make sure it was latched.  Is there something wrong with the way the '05 latches are made?

 

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

 

 

Nothing wrong with the design, although nobody is happy about the cables, but that is another story.

 

But, you probably need to take the latch in for warranty work. Your latch might be defective, or not adjusted correctly. You have an '05---take it in.

[JimG]

This happens with my 03 on occassion. However, your vehicle is a brand new 2005 - let the dealer worry about it.

My truck has too many mods towards the rear (tonneau cover, rails, rhino liner) so I never bothered bringing it in for this. With mine, as long as I keep everything lubed, it works fine.

[GM-Tech]

We have not had one complaint of that happening, so it doesn't seem likely it is a design issue. Must be something wrong with yours.

[drumset5994]

Happened on mine...here's what i did...

 

Sprayed the sissor-handle inside with WD-40...like crazy

 

Wrapped electical tape around the connection posts that the latch holds.

 

After really working everything (open and close it) it free'd up and latched completely...keeping the tailgate shut.

[lrymal]

OH, now I get it.... The latch assembly is sticking, probably from dirt or junk.

 

Never have had that problem. Always have lubricated my latches and hinges every three months or so. GM makes a good lube for this. Used it for years. Just go to the parts department and ask for it. I forget the name of it, but it is better than the automotive latch/hinge lube from the car parts wholesalers.

 

They also make a good door gasket conditioner which should be installed twice a year or so. Periodic / preventive maintenance is a good thing...

[slemmer]

OH, now I get it....  The latch assembly is sticking, probably from dirt or junk.

 

Never have had that problem. Always have lubricated my latches and hinges every three months or so. GM makes a good lube for this. Used it for years. Just go to the parts department and ask for it. I forget the name of it, but it is better than the automotive latch/hinge lube from the car parts wholesalers.

 

They also make a good door gasket conditioner which should be installed twice a year or so. Periodic / preventive maintenance is a good thing...

 

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

 

 

 

Thanks for the feedback everyone. The latch may be sticking - I'll take it in on my next OLF session. For something that is 5 months old, it's the first thing that I noticed that wasn't working right. I did notice how quite the tailgate latches as compared with my previous '95 version though.

[jimmypsp700]

I have heard of this problem and seen it happen to a '03 Ave i test drove but not on my '04.

 

BUT..

 

Have you guys had any problems with the tailgate locks? Mine won't turn all the way to unlock it at times, the key goes in and fits but the latch/rods/linkage is jamming the last 1/4 turn of the key.

 

I also have a retractor in the drivers seat restraint squeaking bad and is annoying.

 

Good thing its still under warranty so I could get these minor issues taken care of.

[gmcjoe]

On my 2000, I have to lube the tailgate mechanism annually. I would take your tailgate handle and side latches apart and give it a nice cleaning and re-lube, that should solve your problem

 

Regarding the tailgate cables, I just put these stainless straps on my GMC - I love them

 

http://michiganclassics.com/tailgate_straps.htm

[Mr. Smith]

On my 2000, I have to lube the tailgate mechanism annually. I would take your tailgate handle and side latches apart and give it a nice cleaning and re-lube, that should solve your problem

 

Regarding the tailgate cables, I just put these stainless straps on my GMC - I love them

 

http://michiganclassics.com/tailgate_straps.htm

 

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

 

 

 

 

When they don't post prices I am leary. Personally I feel that I can replace the cables every five years and still not spend what they are asking. Considering the fact I keep my truck for 15 years.

 

Nice looking replacements though.

[gmcjoe]

On my 2000, I have to lube the tailgate mechanism annually. I would take your tailgate handle and side latches apart and give it a nice cleaning and re-lube, that should solve your problem

 

Regarding the tailgate cables, I just put these stainless straps on my GMC - I love them

 

http://michiganclassics.com/tailgate_straps.htm

 

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

 

 

 

 

When they don't post prices I am leary. Personally I feel that I can replace the cables every five years and still not spend what they are asking. Considering the fact I keep my truck for 15 years.

 

Nice looking replacements though.

 

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

 

 

 

They do have prices posted. That link is to the write up I did on my website, you can see the product with prices on their website (the link is also on the page above)

 

I thought the same thing you did, after three sets of GM cables I ended up buying a set. It is a nice product.

www.Dependable-Straps.com

[JimG]

I have a set of the Dependable Straps as well ... they're $25 each strap ... and for the $50 it's well worth it. My one OE cable was frayed and about half-broken when I put these on. Since then I haven't thought twice about standing on the tailgate or leaving a heavy box on there.