Ford Explorer: Body Closures / General Procedures - Liftgate Alignment

Special Tool(s) / General Equipment

Materials

Adjustment

NOTE: Removal steps in this procedure may contain installation details.

All alignments

1. Open the liftgate.
   

1. Position aside the liftgate weatherstrip and the load compartment cover.
   

1. Remove the liftgate scuff plate trim panel.
   
   1. Release the liftgate scuff plate trim panel clips.
      Use the General Equipment: Interior Trim Remover
   2. If equipped
      Disconnect the keyless entry rear antenna electrical connector.
      

1. Remove the liftgate striker.
   Torque: 18 lb.ft (25 Nm)

Liftgate left and right, up and down alignment

1. Loosen the bolts.
   Loosen:
      :   2 turn(s)

1. Carefully close the liftgate.
   

1. Adjust the liftgate as required.
   

1. Carefully open the liftgate.
   

1. Tighten the bolts.
   Torque: 22 lb.ft (30 Nm)

Liftgate in and out alignment

1. Adjust the stops.
   

1. On both sides
   Remove pin type retainer and the drip moulding.
   

1. On both sides
   Remove the hinge cover.
   

1. Carefully close the liftgate.
   

1. On both sides
   Loosen the bolts.
   Loosen:
      :   2 turn(s)

1. Adjust the liftgate as required.
   

1. On both sides
   Tighten the bolts.
   Torque: 26 lb.ft (35 Nm)

1. On both sides
   Apply seam sealer
   Material: Seam Sealer / TA-2-B, 3M™ 08308, LORD Fusor® 805DTM

All alignments

1. Inspect the body-to-liftgate door alignment.
   

1. Install the position aside and removed components.
   

1. If equipped with power liftgate, carry out the power liftgate initialization.
   Refer to: Power Liftgate Initialization (501-03 Body Closures, General Procedures).