2011 Tailgate Removal Question

[Sikos]

Hi all, trying to remove the tailgate from the 2011. The owners book says to hold at 45 degree, lift right side out (after removing cables) than slide to the right to free the left side pivot.

I did did the above steps (except the last), but cannot slide tailgate to the right.

I do see a rod coming from the tailgate going into the left side pivot. I am guessing this is the torsion rod for lifting/lowering tailgate.

My question(s) is:

When holding tailgate at the 45 degree angle, is there still tension on the rod?

Could it be paint at the pivot & rod that is causing a problem?

Any help, thoughts would be appreciated.

Thanks

Joe

 

[Sikos]

Update... tried to remove tailgate again. Started at 45 degree angle per owners manual, than started to lift tailgate as to close it and when I got to approximately 60 degrees, tailgate slid off.

Thanks

Joe