Ford 7L1Z-7843150-D Tailgate Latch Assembly

To address the door latch, first raise the window and remove the door trim panel along with the watershield. Next, take out the screws that secure the latch to the door, detach the locking rods and cable, and pull the latch assembly through the access hole. While working through the large access hole, position the latch to disengage the outside door handle and lock cylinder from the latch rods, as well as the inside handle from the latch cable. All door locking rods are attached by plastic clips, which can be removed by unsnapping the portion engaging the connecting rod and pulling the rod out of its locating hole. Adjust the latch to disengage the door lock actuator hook, then remove the latch assembly from the door, with installation being the reverse of removal. For the outside handle and door lock cylinder assembly, raise the window and remove the door trim panel and watershield. Through the large access hole, disengage the plastic clips securing the lock cylinder to the latch rod and the door handle to the latch rod. Disconnect any electrical connectors that may interfere with removal, then remove the outside handle retaining nuts accessible through the access hole in the door frame and pull the handle and lock cylinder assembly from the door, with installation being the reverse of removal. For the inside handle and cable, remove the door trim panel and peel away the watershield. Take out the bolt securing the inside handle and pull rearward to disengage it from the inner door panel. Detach the latch rod from the backside of the handle and remove it from the vehicle, rotating the handle out and detaching the latch rod retaining clip, with installation being the reverse of removal.

Once every 3000 miles or every three months, the hinges and latch assemblies on the doors, hood, and trunk should receive a few drops of light oil or lock lubricant. Additionally, the door latch strikers should be lubricated with a thin coat of grease to minimize wear and ensure smooth operation. It is also recommended to lubricate the door and trunk locks with spray-on graphite lubricant.

Lower the tailgate and remove the access cover by taking out the screws to reach the inside of the tailgate. Next, remove the latch mounting screws, which may require an impact driver to loosen. Disconnect the control rods from the latch and take the latch out of the door. For the handle and lock cylinder, disconnect the control rods by disengaging the handle-to-latch rods and remove the handle retaining nuts. Detach the retaining nuts to take out the handle and lock cylinder assembly from the tailgate. Installation follows the reverse order of removal.

Once every 3000 miles or every three months, the hinges and latch assemblies on the doors, hood, and trunk should receive a few drops of light oil or lock lubricant. Additionally, the door latch strikers should be lubricated with a thin coat of grease to minimize wear and ensure smooth operation. It is also recommended to lubricate the door and trunk locks with spray-on graphite lubricant.