I have a 1999 Legacy estate (wagon). I need to remove the latch /lock assembly at the bottom of the tailgate. To do this you need to remove the rod which goes from the lock up to the handle(above the numberplate)

This rod is rivetted on at the lower end, and screwed into a sort of ball joint at the top end.So it has to come off at the top.

I have tried gently pressing the pin at the top, and squeezing the nylon bush the pin runs in.No good.

My subaru dealer says that both the lock and handle are only available as complete assemblies, so I don't want to start getting all rough and sweaty with it.

Can you tech men tell me how to release this rod please.

Yewman.

Why do you need to replace it?

 

 

nipper

Bodywork maybe?

I don't need to replace the latch or rod. I need to remove the latch and lock assembly, so I can fit a new return spring to the latch. It is not possible to do it when it's on the car.

Without the spring, it messes up the electric locking.

As I said, no parts are available for the latch, so I will have to find a spring somewhere.

Even with the 3 bolts which secure the latch taken out, you can't get the latch out of the door without removing the rod from the top.

Sorry if my explanation is not clear, it's easy to see when you look at it but not to write about !!

Yewman