Ford Explorer: Body Closures / Removal and Installation - Liftgate

Removal

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

1. Remove the liftgate trim panel.
   Refer to: Liftgate Trim Panel (501-05 Interior Trim and Ornamentation, Removal and Installation).
   

1. Remove the D-Pillar trim panel.
   Refer to: D-Pillar Trim Panel (501-05 Interior Trim and Ornamentation, Removal and Installation).
   Refer to: D-Pillar Trim Panel - Police (501-05 Interior Trim and Ornamentation, Removal and Installation).
   

1. Remove the following items:
   1. Disconnect the electrical connectors.
      
   2. Remove the bolt.
      
   3. Detach the wiring harness retainers and route through the liftgate.
      

1. Detach the rear wiper washer hose connector.
   

1. Remove the grommet and route the harness out of the liftgate..
   

1. Mark the location of the liftgate hinge bolts.
   

1. NOTE: This step requires the aid of another technician.

   On both sides.
   Remove the clips holding the liftgate struts or the power liftgate motor and position aside.
   

1. NOTE: This step requires the aid of another technician.

   Remove the liftgate bolts and remove the liftgate from the vehicle.
   Torque: 22 lb.ft (30 Nm)

Installation

1. To install, reverse the removal procedure.
   

1. Align the liftgate as necessary.
   Refer to: Liftgate Alignment (501-03 Body Closures, General Procedures).
   

Vehicles with power liftgate

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