Replacing clips on tailgate regulator arms

[83CherokeeLaredo]

Does any have any advice on how to get the clips back on the tailgate regulator arms? I have my tailgate up, window about half way down, access panel open and can't figure out a way to get the clips back on the regulator arms. I've tried reaching up and pressing the clips on with pliers and screwdrivers for about the last 90 minute with no luck. Thanks.

[talntar]

cut holes in the gate

[andy d]

What Taltar says. 1st step I take with tailgates is to figure where the clips are and use a 2" holesaw on the panel. After ward I cover the holes with duct tape. It looks factory

[donwag]

Well, I have done this a number of times without cutting new holes. It is difficult, but not impossible.

First use new clips or at least re-condition your old ones, a little lubricant will also help. Move the window regulator arms to the best position for access. Get the clips started, one at at time, with your fingers, then use a long screwdriver to leverage the clip to its seat.

Patience and perserverance will win out.

[MrFurious]

Use a bimetal 1-1/2" hole saw to cut holes into the inner tailgate panel directly above where clips go withthe window half way down (reulator arms parallel to the ground). You can then use a deep well socket to press the clips on (put a block of wood under the arm so it doesn't flex). To fill the holes, simply go to any parts store and tell them you need two 1-1/2" rubber body plugs like pictured below.



Just finished this exact same job on my Cherokee, and trust me...it's a lot easier than cussing and screaming while you try to get enough pressure on the clips to seat them through the inspection panel opening.

[kel]

Does any have any advice on how to get the clips back on the tailgate regulator arms? I have my tailgate up, window about half way down, access panel open and can't figure out a way to get the clips back on the regulator arms. I've tried reaching up and pressing the clips on with pliers and screwdrivers for about the last 90 minute with no luck. Thanks.

I just did this last week. with the window about 1/3 of the way down just reach up in there and press them on with your fingers. You'll need to "rock" them on one side then the others. I took me a few tries, but eventually I got it, less than 90 minutes tho. Just don't drop it in there, I'm still looking for the other one.

Kel

[FSJ Guy]

The hole drilling method is best. I had a friend drill the holes in my tailgate for me and it makes a WORLD of difference. I didn't plug the holes, as the carpet pad covers them.

[Blinkinlights]

First of all...abandon those stupid clips and use a washer and a c-clip.

Your arm looks like this



So Use these



So it looks like this...and put some grease on it so it slides really nicely.


There are no mods that you have to do with the arm, just get the right c-clip and washer. I would love to give you the exact size of the c-clip and washer, but I did this a while ago and never wrote it down. I can say, however, that my window goes up AND down nicely.

HTH

Greg

[JP]

I just did this Monday night. The stud was so worn I just could not get the stock type clips in there. I went with the c-clip idea. 7/16" is what fit mine although my calipers were measuring closer to 3/8". I won't know how well it will work until the long-term test though.

JP.