Ok, I've been working on this tailgate on my '60 valiant wagon for over a year (off and on). I have not gotten it open. Been spraying liquid wrench into where I think it needs to go, and it's still not budging. Must be doing something wrong. I'm worried I'm going to have to break something to get the tailgate open. The latch mechanism on the outside of the tailgate, but between the tailgate surface and body must be rusted. Someone tell me I don't have to become destructive; that there's something I'm missing... Does anyone have a thorough diagram?

Evan

Exploded view of the 61 Valiant wagon Tailgate
http://members.cox.net/relic-lover/tailgate61.jpg

Any luck?
I've had my '64 apart.
Take the inside handle loose 1st, then the panel.
That should allow you to get at the mechanism.
Use lots and lots of slickum.

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aed
/6>V8

Have not yet tried. Thanks Steve, that exploded view of the tailgate may help. Its the lock mechanism that I need a really good view of. I'm going to start taking it apart from the inside as much as I can. Will let you guys know how it goes.

Evan