I am looking for help in getting my tailgate open. The driver's side latch seems to be seized up. I have accessed it from the inside. I am not sure of the correct terms to use so I have attached a picture.
In normal operation, B keeps A from turning when the gate is correctly latched. When the latch handle is used to release the gate, B is moved away from A and allows A to turn (in this picture, A would turn clockwise) to allow the gate to open.
When I work the latch handle, the latch on the passenger side releases fine. The latch on drivers side won't budge. Part B is moved away from A but A won't turn. I have sprayed it several times with PB Blaster. I have tried throwing my weight against it from both sides as well as prying at it with screwdrivers and crowbars. I even cautiously whacked at it with a hand sledge. Because the passenger side releases, I am now in danger of skewing the tailgate.
On the inside, I have gently pried at part A with screwdrivers. The problem is there is no place to get a tool to bite so I can whack at it to force the rotation. I can't get pliers to grip the side of the wheel.
My last attempt was to drill small holes in each side of A (at 2 oclock and 8 oclock) so that I could get a spanner on it. I broke my drill bits almost immediately. I think this approach holds some promise but I am going to have to get more bits before I can try again.
When all else fails, I guess I will have to start thinking destructively. Maybe I can pry off the springs and get vice grips on the wheel?
I don't know what else to try. Does anybody have some guidance for me? Thanks.