Check the tailgate cables

[p38arover]

This is the second one that has failed. I was leaning on the tailgate (luckily not standing on it) when it snapped.

I just found there was a TSB some years back advising Service Depts. to check the cables. LR went to a different material - I assume stainless steel. What has obviously happened is that water has collected in the bottom of the rubber outer tube when the tailgate is closed and the cable is in a U-shape.

Maybe one should cut a hole in the outer so that water can drain out - and perhaps squirt some oil in there, too.

A new cable is about $64.

http://www.aulro.com/afvb/attachment.php?attachmentid=93577&stc=1&d=1430989966

http://www.aulro.com/afvb/attachment.php?attachmentid=93578&stc=1&d=1430989971

[glenhendry]

My brothers snapped just the other day, a '97. It looked like the cable was thicker too. But, they are probably all due since they are all getting old. I sit on my tailgate all the time too.

Great idea on the drain hole. There is definitely rust in there at the boot position.

[p38arover]

If I recall correctly, the first one that snapped some years back did so at the crimped end, not where this one did.

[finallyrangie]

I had one break at the end, looked like water had collected in the rubber end and over time had done its thing, changed them both and just put it down to age, didn't realise it was a documented problem, thanks for bringing it to general attention, I will keep an eye on the new ones now.