QuestionQUESTION: Hi this is a re-post of my original question which was not answered. "Hi, I am trying to remove the handle from the tailgate on my 2000 Grand Caravan and after removing the interior panel, i can't figure out how to remove the handle. There is rust appearing and i would like to repair it so that it doesn't get any worse. Can you help? Thank you."
ANSWER: Hi John,
To remove the outside handle:
Remove liftgate trim panel
Remove power lock motor
Disengage outside handle link from clip on liftgate latch
Disconnect vehicle theft system switch from back of lock cylinder, if equipped
Disengage lock link, if equipped
Remove nut attaching outside liftgate handle to liftgate
Disengage retaining groove holding handle in liftgate
Remove outside liftgate handle and links from vehicle.
To install:
Position outside liftgate handle and links on vehicle
Engage retaining groove to hold handle to liftgate by pushing handle to the right for centering
Install nut to attach outside liftgate handle to liftgate
Connect VTS switch from back of lock cylinder if equipped
Engage outside handle link to clip on liftgate latch
Install lock link, if equipped
Install power lock motor
Verify liftgate operation. Adjust as necessary
Install trim gate panel.
Look this over, and if something is not clear I can xerox copy and postal mail you a figure that shows the details. Follow-up with a question that gives me a postal mailing address.
This is from a '98 shop manual which I believe is applicable to your '00 vehicle. The '02 manual shows a re-design with a much simpler approach (2 screws).
Roland
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QUESTION: Hi Roland. Thank you for the response. If possible can you email thefigure that shows the details to or my mailing address is 18 Avro Road, Maple, Ontario Canada L6A 1Y3. Thank you again for your expertise!
ANSWER: Hi John,
Unfortunately I don't have a scanner but will copy and postal mail it to you.
Roland
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QUESTION: Hi Roland,
Thank for for the xerox copy. I am still having difficulty removing the handle. I have taken off the interior panel from the tailgate and i can't fugure what is holding the handle to the liftgate. There is a long plastic (beige/white in color) nut which is long and protrudes through the liftgate. I put a 5/16 socket on the end and tried to unscrew but the nut was twisting but not unscrewing. i used WD40 as well. Unless the nut is really screwed on super tight, i don't have any other ideas other than snapping it which may result in having to buy a new handle. Have you ever come across this problem? any suggestions? Thank you.
AnswerHi John,
The only suggestion that comes to mind would be to simultaneously push the external handle inward while gently turning the nut to relieve any friction that might be built up on the threads. Also, you might try silicone spray rather than WD-40. Have you checked at a dealer parts counter for an "exploded view" of the handle?
Those are my thoughts at this point.
Roland
