I recently experienced the uh-oh when I pulled handle for the rear hatch and nothing happened. There are two options when this happens, buy a new handle assembly or fab a small piece to replace the broken part. I opted for the 2nd option and here is how I did it. Please read all the way through before you start so you know how it should look when you're done, this may help find all the parts that need to be removed to fix the handle.

1. to get the hatch open so you can fix it open the glass and pop the plastic inner panel free along the top (mine had metal clips and needed a little force to pop off, this will allow you to get your hand down and push the release mechanism to open the hatch. I don't have a before pic but if it broke like mine did you will be looking for a rod assembly(see step 5), push down to get the door open.


2. Here is my handle assembly out of the vehicle. You can see where the tab broke off.


3. I made a piece to bolt on using 1/8 inch steel, keep in mind there will need to be clearance so the handle can be pulled up all the way.



4. I used 4-40 machine screws and tapped the original handle so the screws can be cut flush to the back so the handle can open. I used a 6-32 screw to replace the rivet where the arm attaches.


Make sure to hook the spring around the arm to keep tension on the handle when the hatch is closed.



5. You are now ready to put the handle assembly back in the rear hatch. After you stick the handle assembly back in you will be attaching the long bar to this plastic screw clamp. You may have to unsnap this when getting the parts out initially.


Here's what it should look like when you get it in and snapped shut.


After verifying the whole thing works snap the plastic inner panel back on and pat yourself on the back for saving a few bucks.

 

Hi Northlander,

When I first bought my 2000 Jimmy my interior light (door ajar) was always on. I finally figured out it had to do with the rear tailgate handle and latch. I also tore into mine to figure it out. Fortunately mine was not broken but terribly rusted. I took everything apart, wirebrushed parts, greased everything with never seize. I make sure that I lube that area every six months. Works flawlessly since. Keep it well oiled