Repair And Fix it

Some Chevy S-10 pickup trucks have problems with the tailgates. The tailgate cables ensure the tailgate stays at the correct level when it is in the down position. Weak cables may result in personal injury and damage to the truck.

History

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration completed a defect investigation (EA05008) which details that owners of select Chevy S-10 trucks are authorized to have the cables replaced free of charge. The investigation also recommended that owners of Chevy S-10 trucks periodically inspect the cables for signs of wear and tear.

Warning

Cables that are worn or frayed can break unexpectedly. Moisture interacting with the cable reduces the strength of the cable. When the cable breaks, the tailgate can come down and hit the bumper. This can damage the bumper and tailgate cosmetically. A person may be injured if he is near or on the tailgate when the cable breaks.

Recommendation

Cables that appear to be worn, frayed or bulging should be brought to the attention of General Motors. A trained technician will be able to determine if the cables need to be replaced. Cables may be replaced free of charge if they are included in a warranty, safety notice or recall.

The seventh generation of the Toyota Corolla includes the 1993 through 1997 model years in the United States and features a few different models, including a four-door station wagon. This model has a tailgate that lifts up and allows direct access to the rear of the vehicle. To remove the tailgate in the 1994 Corolla station wagon you must also remove the trim panel for the tailgate.

Instructions

1

Open the tailgate and raise it as far as possible. Remove the fasteners for the inner trim panel with a socket wrench. Remove the inner panel from the tailgate by pulling it forward and then out of the vehicle.

2

Detach the electrical wiring harness from the the tailgate and push it out of your way. Mark the location of the hinges on the tailgate with a scribe to help you position the tailgate if you must reinstall it later.

3

Disconnect the bolts for the damper stays with a socket wrench. Remove the damper stays from the tailgate and move them out of the way.

4

Detach the electrical wiring for the rear defroster, if your vehicle is so equipped. Remove the mounting bolts for the tailgate with a socket wrench and detach the tailgate from its hinges.