Fixing rear hatch latch 97+

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Old 03-15-2014, 10:32 PM
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Join Date: Feb 2011
Location: Blunt, South Dakota
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Year: 97
Model: Cherokee (XJ)
Engine: 4.6 stroker
Default Fixing rear hatch latch 97+

So for those who didn't see my post in OEM, here is what I did to fix my rear latch. Background: My key would only lock the rear latch, but not open it, the tumbler would only turn one way, lock only. My dilemma was I couldn't get my rear hatch open to fix. So, here it is.

OK, so solved my rear hatch not unlocking problem. So, here's what I started with:
Fixing rear hatch latch 97+-zo3fiuw.jpg

Got my needed tools, didn't grab a pic of the cordless drill with phillips bit, sorry, LOL
Fixing rear hatch latch 97+-lk2lor4.jpg
Fixing rear hatch latch 97+-m3lwcyx.jpg
Fixing rear hatch latch 97+-0ydath7.jpg
Fixing rear hatch latch 97+-xbwpfs9.jpg

So, it was suggested I check underneath where the striker is to see if I could access the bolts, to remove them and get the hatch open.
Fixing rear hatch latch 97+-stnlvbz.jpg

So, I'm in luck, right? WRONG. Took them out, and while I was able to move it, couldn't get it open as the bolts were too long. Here's what they looked like at the maxed out position:
Fixing rear hatch latch 97+-ee1pngq.jpg

So, I crawled in the back and pulled the middle section of the panel out next:
Fixing rear hatch latch 97+-dbpk1xs.jpg
Just reached in and pulled the latch lever.

Success!
Fixing rear hatch latch 97+-pp0bzjh.jpg

So then I got the interior panel off, and poked my noggin around inside, pulled the metal clip on the latch lever, and removed the solenoid rod...
Fixing rear hatch latch 97+-hqrym4b.jpg
Fixing rear hatch latch 97+-v3t7nna.jpg

Removed the 10mm nut holding it in place and removed:
Fixing rear hatch latch 97+-wslagk1.jpg

So here's the culprit:
Fixing rear hatch latch 97+-zyx4zd1.jpg

...and here is where the issue was. That little hooked portion I'm pointing to was bent slightly out of whack...
Fixing rear hatch latch 97+-d8ud5im.jpg

After bending it back in place, I cleaned, lubed, reinstalled, put the clips back on, replaced the interior trim, verified operation, YAY! Key locks and unlocks with zero issues now. Then took it on a test drive with a friend:
Fixing rear hatch latch 97+-deqcb8v.jpg
Fixing rear hatch latch 97+-yfyx4so.jpg

Hope this helps anyone with the same issue!
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