Rear latch removal help

[MikeS]

OK, I'm stumped I'm determined to get my hard top refurbished this summer so I can drive the truck next winter. So I started the project today by taking on the rear hatch (thanks for the donor Kurt!). I've got all the hardware off except for the handle. How do you get it out? I've taken off all the screws and bolts I can find. Even knocked out the two retaining pins I could find and got the tumbler out. But the handle won't come apart.

What am I missing?

Also, anybody got a good suggestion for doing the texturing? I was thinking of some kind of roll on bedliner. Do they make it in white?

Mike

[pound41]

Once you remove the carter key the hatch handle is just sitting in the square hole in the round part of the mechanism. The problem is you have 30yrs of rust (eventhough it doesn't have much rust) the fit between the shaft and the is super tight. Sand the shaft on the otherside of the circle and spray it with crc or something. Then try to lightly tap it out. Becareful not to break your hatch. If it won't come I have removed several by taking a C clamp and putting one end on the square end of the shaft and the other on the mechanism and turning, Essentially you are going to press out the shaft. Glad to see you go a window. I had thought about you. Been so busy with my business that I haven't had a chance to do anything with my hatches. If you need anymore help let me know

[MikeS]

That did the trick!! I should have known I needed the BFH! Thanks for the help.