I recently decided to adjust the valves on my 2005 Acura MDX based on the engine slightly shuddering and its mileage. I first did my research and carefully planned out the steps, including required tools, torque specs, new gaskets, etc. Due to the proximity of some hoses and electrical connections, removing the valve cover off was a challenge, but I finally got it removed.

I took my time adjusting each valve as needed and was confident I would have an improved outcome. After re-assembly, I fired up the engine, and it was only running on three cylinders, with error codes, and coolant was pouring out onto the driveway! I checked the hose connections and found a small coolant hose was not put back in, so I solved that right away. However, frustrated, I decided to tow it to a shop to have them take a look to see what I missed. I was afraid I really messed something up when adjusting the valves.

To my embarrassment, but also relief, the only problem was that two ignition coils in the back of the engine were not pushed all the way in! Once that was resolved, the codes were cleared, and the Acura's engine has been running nice and smooth ever since. A good lesson to thoroughly check each step.

Sean in California

My youngest daughter worked at a hazelnut farm this fall. (Yes, she had a "nut job.") There were safety and maintenance protocols for chainsaws, shelling machines and other potentially dangerous nut-related machinery. The farm's fleet of battered pickups did not get the same attention. They were using workarounds for even some easy-to-fix problems. For example, when a tailgate fell off a pickup truck, workers knew to stop and put it back on or at least lift it into the truck's bed. I assume they also gathered up any scattered equipment or nuts. Whether it is a "Mad Max" style farm truck or a daily driver, it is usually relatively inexpensive (time and parts) to replace worn, corroded, bent or missing tailgate hardware.

Tailgate Handle and Latches:
A tailgate usually has left and right latches connected to a centrally located handle mechanism with rods. Removing the door handle's bezel or an access panel on the inside of the tailgate can help you see if the rods, linkages and latches are all moving freely. Sometimes a little cleaning and lubrication will get the mechanism working again or at least help you better see what parts are broken.

Ford Super Duty Tailgate Handle & Nissan Titan Latch

Tailgate Striker Bolt (Lock Striker / Plate):
The latches in the tailgate usually clamp onto left and right striker bolts mounted on the body. The tailgate will rattle if a latch has worn a groove in the metal striker bolt and/or any plastic covering. A striker bolt's position can often be adjusted slightly by loosening and re-tightening its mounting nut.

Ram & Ford Striker Bolts

Tailgate Support Cable (Release Cable):
There are usually left and right support cables that hold up the open tailgate (and help prevent it from ever completely falling off). It should be easy to see if the cables are broken, frayed or missing.

Chevrolet Tailgate Cables

Tailgate Hinge:
At the left and right lower corners there are typically trunnion-like hinges. A trunnion hinge makes the tailgate easily removable. A stud on one piece (tailgate or body) fits into a cup on the other piece. Some designs include a plastic bushing inside the cup that wears out and occasionally can be replaced separately.

Chevrolet & Toyota Hinges

A broken support cable will put extra strain on the hinges. Loose or bent hinges will accelerate latch and striker bolt wear. Worn latches will encourage excessive yanking on the tailgate handle. All the tailgate's parts are interrelated, and to avoid premature wear on new parts, it is a good idea to replace parts as a set. For some trucks, RockAuto has "Tailgate Hardware" kits that include all the major handle and latch parts as well as pieces such as new bump stops, bushings and fasteners that can help ensure the tailgate repair is a complete, rattle-free success.

Ram Tailgate Hardware Kit

The tailgate parts mentioned above are found for specific pickup trucks under "Body & Lamp Assembly" in the RockAuto.com catalog.

Tom Taylor,
RockAuto.com

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