From inside. Remove the two screws under the hanging strap, underneath the lock button cover, and any other visible screws. The inside trim can then be pulled into the truck and DAMAGE IS LIKELY.
You can trip the release from inside the door and then repair or replace the plastic trim.
Most often the cause is two broken clips inside the tail gate mechanism. By pushing upwards you can remove the plastic bezel around the tailgate handle; its just snapped into place. You should now be able to see the mechanism under the handle. There are two metal bars coming in from the sides of the tailgate. These operate the latches on either side of the tailgate. They are attached to the central tailgate handle mechanism by plastic clips. One is pink and one is green; colored to indicate whether they go on the right or the left. You can get these clips from a dealership for about 5 bucks a piece. Hope that helps.
First you need to remove the trim bezel around the handle on the outside of the tailgate. Then remove the three bolts on the inside of the tailgate,that hold the handle in place. Next remove the latching mechanism rods from the handle,and remove the handle from the tailgate.
Chances are that your tailgate doesn't keep opening, rather it isn't latching properly. I had a '97 with a similar issue. You need to remove the tailgate handle bezel, and you may be able to lubricate the handle mechanism from that point. Use a white lithium spray grease, or a graphite lubricant. If not, you will need to remove the mechanism from the tailgate.
with a hammer
You first must take off the handle to see what your problem is. Most likely it is one of the plastic pieces that holds the release rods to the handle. To take the handle off there are three 14mm bolts on the inside of the tailgate.
I have the same problem with my '95. Has anyone figured this out? stevel@aatrix.com
The T-handle or lock mechanism inside the door is damaged.
Remove the long access panel from the inside of the tailgate.Unhook the two metal rods from the handle on the inside of the tailgate.Remove the two bolts from the door handle located on the inside of the tailgate.
If no obvious screws or cover plugs, it just pulls off. Most door panels do. May have to remove inside handle first if there is one.
A little more info would help.m Do you have tension on the handle? Does the window open. Was there signs of corrosion on the locking mechanism? I would try removing the interior panel to see if you can move the locking mechanism w/ a screw driver. A little more info would help Do you have tension on the handle? Does the window open. Was there signs of corrosion on the locking mechanism? I would try removing the interior panel to see if you can move the locking mechanism w/ a screw driver.
How do I take off the handle to put a new one on a chevy colorado 2005
If you look where the handle goes you will see 2 rods. Just squezz them together. Are use a screewdriver to pry them towards each other.