For best results, please read all instructions thoroughly prior to attempting installation of your SIR MICHAEL'S tailgate handle relocater. SIR MICHAEL'S recommends the use of approved hand, eye and ear safety equipment while performing this installation. If you have any questions concerning the installation of your SIR MICHAEL'S tailgate handle relocater please contact our customer service department at (714) 379-6800, Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time (PST).

NOTE: Any part that is modified and/or painted are non returnable.

Remove the tailgate from the truck and place (handle down) on saw horses or work bench.

Measure 22 inches (standard Ranger and Mazda) in or 18 inches (Ranger Splash) from the outside edge of the removable inner panel on each side and mark the remaining 5-1/4-inch area for removal.

Remove the inner panel from the tailgate and cut the previously measured 5-1/4-inch section from the inner panel using a hand saw or die grinder.

Disconnect the tailgate handle latch linkage and remove the tailgate handle from the tailgate.

Turn the tailgate over (handle up) and grind paint off the area around the tailgate handle recess (approximately two inches) and weld the SIR MICHAEL'S provided filler panel in place. Please NOTE: DO NOT attempt to weld one continuous bead as excessive heat will damage outer tailgate skin.

Turn the tailgate back over (handle down) and re-attach the now two-piece inner panel to the inside of the tailgate using the factory mounting hardware. Next, mount tailgate handle to SIR MICHAEL'S tailgate handle relocater plate, again using the factory mounting hardware.

Re-attach the tailgate handle linkage to the tailgate handle and mount the SIR MICHAEL'S tailgate handle relocater plate to the inside of the tailgate using SIR MICHAEL'S supplied #8 self-tapping screws.

Finally, grind down the welds, apply body filler, block sand, primer and paint to match the outer tailgate skin. Now you are ready to re-install your SIR MICHAELíS tailgate handle relocater equipped tailgate back onto the truck.