[Maximus 2]

After reading the numerous threads reporting the unpredictable problem of 07-08 Tundra tailgates failing to open, I decided to be proactive and address the problem before it happens. With my luck, it will happen when I have a ton of gravel to unload at a job site. This is one of the links reporting this problem : http://www.tundrasolutions.com/forums/tundra/116509-tailgate-handle-is-broken-again/
I will post the procedure in two threads titled “Simple solution to tailgate breaking problem on 07-08 Tundras- post 1” and “Simple solution to tailgate breaking problem on 07-08 Tundras- post 2” I apologize for not knowing how to post large photos of the procedure. Instead all I could do is post thumbnails. ** By the way, this method of holding rods in place is commonly found on older cars with manual door locks. I guess Toyota did not want to adhere to the tried, simple, and true. Instead they probably spent thousands on research and development to come up with “PLASTIC” holders. If anyone knows how to post this thread on the DIY blog, please do so for me.

Photo 1 – You need to go to the hardware store and purchase “push washers” in different sizes. The one that actually fit was the smallest of those displayed. The hole is the size of a BB for a BB gun. Push washers have small slits on them designed to hold tight once forcefully installed. If you find the hole a bit large, just smash the push washer flat a bit with a hammer on a hard surface and test fit. If the push washer hole is too small, lay it on a piece of wood and push the tip of a Phillips screwdriver to open the hole. Remember to FORCE the push washer onto the locking rod for proper installation. These washers can be removed by simultaneously prying them off with two flat screwdrivers.
Photo 2 – Remove tailgate cover by removing the torx screws.
Photo 3 – You will now see the lock. Notice the purple and orange plastic holders. Slide the purple and orange plastic rod holders sideways to remove. These are plastic pieces of caca that break. When they break the rod falls of the locking mechanism and your tailgate no longer opens. You will notice that the same plastic rod holders are also at each end of the tailgate where it latches to the truck bed. I could not get to these and trust they will hold since they only experience sideways movement and not the twisting motion the ones on the handle.
Photo 4 – This is a preview of what you eventually want to do.
Photo 5 – Remove the tailgate handle mechanism by removing two silver bolts. The only remaining thing holding the mechanism in place is a small plastic lip which when depressed causes the locking mechanism to fall right off. I have pointed at the plastic lip with a pen.
Continued on “Simple solution to tailgate breaking problem on 07-08 Tundras- post 2”