tailgate problems

[biggawd]

the handle on my 85 c10 tailgate broke is there any way to open or remove the tailgate. and do i replace the tailgate if i can get it off or can it be fixed. thanks

[ccz145a]

Lube all the moving parts first. Then you should be able to peek up in the handle cavity and move the latch rods to open the tailgate. The springs are pretty stout, so you may have to use some muscle. After its open you can remove the tailgate, pry the latch rods from the center latch, remove the 3 screws from the backside and replace.