Removal Procedure

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 8 other vehicles, including the 2003 GMC Yukon XL, 2003 GMC Yukon, 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe, 2003 Chevrolet Suburban, and 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Lower the endgate.
Loosen the endgate handle bolts. Refer to HANDLE REPLACEMENT - END GATE (UTILITIES) .
Raise the endgate.

Fig 1: Removing Endgate Handle Bolts

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Remove the handle bezel by prying gently on the upper retainer tabs.
Lower and support the endgate.
Remove the endgate latch assembly. Refer to LATCH REPLACEMENT - END GATE .

Fig 2: Removing Handle Bezel By Prying Gently On Upper Retainer Tabs

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Disengage the linkage rod from the latch assembly.

Fig 3: Disengaging Linkage Rod From Latch Assembly

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Remove the linkage rod (1) from the endgate handle assembly.

Fig 4: Removing Linkage Rod From Endgate Handle Assembly

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.