Wagon Tailgate Latch Failed

[ssn696]

Stuck the key in the other day and the lock won't turn. As in won't even wiggle with the key in it. Not sure if the alignment went awry or something broke inside. I plan to unbolt the latch from the glass to get it up and out of the way, then try to 'pick' the side latches open on the gate with some shim stock so I can drop it and get the plastic interior panel off. Anyone had to try this stunt and have any advice/warnings?

 

[Longroof79]

Quinn,
I've never experienced that misfortune before, other than breaking the winged handle off the lock. I think your approach to getting the tailgate unlatched is the right way to go about it. You really don't have much choice with the door panel in place.

 

[Kansas Bu Wagon]

Wish I could help, but I'm also having problems with mine. Except mine will easily open the window (key turned to the left) and when I try and unlock the tailgate it's very tough to turn it. It's eaten a couple of keys. I also don't have the winged handle on there.

 

[Longroof79]

Wish I could help, but I'm also having problems with mine. Except mine will easily open the window (key turned to the left) and when I try and unlock the tailgate it's very tough to turn it. It's eaten a couple of keys. I also don't have the winged handle on there.

Kansas,
Not having the winged handle in place, you're putting leverage and stress on the key instead, which will cause you to "eat keys".
You know you can buy a non-chrome lock assembly for a first generation S10 Blazer. You'll have a non-matching key until you have it coded to your door locks. Unless you want the original type chrome lock assembly.

 

[Kansas Bu Wagon]

Wish I could help, but I'm also having problems with mine. Except mine will easily open the window (key turned to the left) and when I try and unlock the tailgate it's very tough to turn it. It's eaten a couple of keys. I also don't have the winged handle on there.

Kansas,
Not having the winged handle in place, you're putting leverage and stress on the key instead, which will cause you to "eat keys".
You know you can buy a non-chrome lock assembly for a first generation S10 Blazer. You'll have a non-matching key until you have it coded to your door locks. Unless you want the original type chrome lock assembly.

Sweet thanks Jack. I didn't know the blazer locks would work. I don't mind the different key. An extra key in my pocket looks better than the winged handle on the tailgate lol.

 

[Longroof79]

I thought you might have known about the Blazer tailgate lock. They're cheap the last time I looked online. I think they were under $10.00 iirc.
They could usually be found at Advance or Autozone.
I checked the Advance Auto link and it no longer shows the tailgate lock. I think they might have discontinued it. You could also try NAPA or another parts store...O'Reilly, etc,.

 

[ssn696]

www.lmctruck.com
http://www.lmctruck.com/icatalog/CST/full.aspx?Page=46
29-7787 or 29-7788
$29.99

 

[Kansas Bu Wagon]

Rock auto has them between $10 and $14.

 

[ssn696]

Yep. I almost posted the part numbers, but when you click on the link, the pictures for both part numbers shows no 'wings'. I suppose I can include one on my next big parts order and see what shows up.

 

[ssbrewskyaz]

That's so weird. I just got the part number for the chrome key latch deal a week ago and had my parts guy do a locator. I'll be darned if the local dealer didn't have one on the shelf. It would of cost me more to chrome the one I had than what I paid for brand new. I have a couple of black ones but this is the real deal chrome delight. ...

Damn, like I always say, I'd rather be lucky than good any day. ...

Scott, ...

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