The handle works fine, but it seems loose. Can move key/cylinder about a 1/4 inch.
is there any way to tighten it?
I took the plastic moulding off. But don't see a nut or anything on that side.

 

On the opposite of where the key is there is a bolt built into the handle.
That I always assumed gets nutted from inside the hatch.
I always assumed the other side is held in my the lock.
With one of these things.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/14364247993...SABEgKP0_D_BwE

I know it is a '96 and down part. Just using the link to illustrate the clip.

 

Kinda wish that's what I had on my rear hatch...I'd prefer something a little more sturdy than what they have on 97 on up.
Honestly I'm quite amazed that I got the whole inner plastic liner of the liftgate off without breaking any of the 22 year old "Christmas tree" style plastic fasteners.

I just mainly want to make sure that the little slop isn't going to get worse. I already have to do the famous little push near the latch and lift the handle to get it open. So I went in to inspect to see if it was just something that I could tighten back down.

 

Note from DJ

This posting contains a lot of photos and suggestions on how to fix.

97+ Sticky Rear Hatch Latch Fix on 6-13-16

https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f51/97...ch-fix-226187/

 

That's a good one.. thanks.... will look to see if that fixes that part of the issue on mine. Any thoughts on the liftgate/hatch handle moving slightly? Can move the key cylinder side of the handle about 1/4" up and down. Any way to fix that part?