1994 Aerostar Rear Hatch Won't Open

SCHREBBO

MEMBER
1994 ALL OTHER MAKES ALL OTHER MODELS

I have a 1994 Aerostar, 200,000 K with pwer locks. The problem is that the rear hatch won't open. I've removed the rear panel figuring that one of the linkages had come off but everything is working fine and hooked up the way it should be. The solenoid for the power lock is also working properly. I think that it must have something to do with the pin and latch mechanism which is pretty much impossible to get at. Is there any way of getting to this area short of cutting the rear end of the van apart?

2 Replies

MERLIN2021

MECHANIC
17,250 POSTS

I would try a good pry bar while activating the release.

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Tuesday, May 8th, 2007 AT 1:12 PM

BAREFOOTBOB88

MEMBER
60 POSTS

My workplace actually uses these trucks for service vans. I've had this happen before. Except the door wouldn't latch when you went to close it. If all of the moving parts are working. It seems to me that the latch is frozen as was my service van. The only thing I can think of is using a pry-bar and trying to open it at the same time or get some PB Blast or some other sort of lubricant like WD-40, and spray the crap out of it from inside the door where you have removed the panel. Wait a bit and try working it free. I wouldn't suggest cutting anything though. If you do get the door to open you pry should lubricate the latching mechanism again. In order to get the plastic cover off the mechanism you'll need like a T-40 or T-50 tork bit and make sure you've eaten your wheaties.