tail gate problems
 

my tail gate won't open anymore and I did a search here and thanks to other members I found out how to pull the panel out .I was thinking the cable was loose because when you pull the handle it feels loose but that wasn't the problem.whan you pull the handle it's suppose to push a metal rod that goes to a mechanism that the cable atach to it and the rod make the mechanism pull the cable and open the latch but the handle came loose or broke(i don't know)where it push the rod and by pushing manually the rod doesn't open the tail gate either.I think the mechanism ( don't know name of part)where the able is hooked is not working propertly either.How can i fix this problem? I don't really want to go to the dealership unless I have no other options.I don't think I'm capable of fixing this myself .where should I go? can anyone help? any advice would be great


1999 4Runner Limited Edition 4x4

I tought i would be able to get help from this forum but I guess nobody can help

I would recommend a body shop as you have done the diagnosis mostly already on your own. They will likely be able to get the part from a Toyota dealer cheaper than you would be able to-however not necessarily sell it to you at a savings.

My own latch on the rear hatch has gotten "stuck" a couple of times when I pinched a moving blanket in the space between the carpet and the closing hatch. I understand what you mean by the piece you pull on engaging another to do the opening, and I would guess yours has weakened over time similar to how mine has been "jammed"