Lift gate handle problem 2000 XJ

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Jul 24, 2019 | 09:54 AM
  #1  
I am a mail carrier, I open my rear hatch at least 30 times a day. I have recently installed a new latch handle, I purchased a doorman product, however I am on my fourth one. They keep breaking, because the plastic that pushes down to unlock the latch keeps snapping. I have attempted to correct this issue, By heavily greasing all parts, I have even drilled a hole through the plastic push part and inserted a steel rod, this lasted for a while and then snapped at the end of where the steel rod stopped. Do they make these out of metal anywhere? Or has anybody experience The same issue? And have a fix?
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Jul 24, 2019 | 10:00 AM
  #2  
I have never seen metal ones. But if you have an unbroken one I'm sure you could have a fabrication/welding/machine shop make a copy out of stainless steel. It would probably be pricey but it could be worth it
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Jul 24, 2019 | 10:09 AM
  #3  
A 3D printed part would be cheaper and easier to make. It might even be marketable.
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Jul 24, 2019 | 10:14 AM
  #4  
Quote: A 3D printed part would be cheaper and easier to make. It might even be marketable.
Could it be strong enough? I have very little experience with 3d printed products.
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Jul 24, 2019 | 10:25 AM
  #5  
In the beginning, 3D printing was just in plastic resin. Now they can do it in titanium! Airbus makes control surface hinges on a 3D printer that pass FAA regulations! He could have that handle printed in carbon fiber very easily IF he can find someone to do it.

Just a thought. Why not install a solenoid actuator to pop the latch? That would take the stress off the handle. Simple pushbutton on the dash. Many vehicles have that already. As a matter of fact, the WJ uses one to unlatch the liftgate glass with a button under the license plate light bracket.
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