I did get the panels off with the door closed. It is tricky but can be done. I had to buy a new power lock assembly. Mine was not fully unlocking the door to allow it to open. The part was $103.00, tax included. I'm sure I saved several hundred dollars doing it myself. The Ford dealer had no idea what was wrong. One Ford mechanic did suggest rust buster top free up the lock mechanism. But the lock was shot not just rusty. My hatch now unlocks with no problem.

 

Great to hear and you probably did save a bunch doing it yourself.

 

I have a 2004 freestar....I can no longer get the hatch open
please send schematics and info
Thanks

Hard to haul a futon without opening the hatch

 

On their way.

 

after reading 100 posts and receiving the pictures from Mike
I did get the panels off with the door closed. It is tricky but can be done. Mine was not fully unlocking the door to allow it to open.
Looking through the little inspection hole in the panel I coudn't see where
stuff was. Spraying a WD-40 like lubricant everywhere and working the
lock back and forth the latch was able to work from the handle outside
then the hatch woudn't close
worked with the spray in new area and now door opens and closes THANKS
I have enjoyed the vehicle We have taken 6 adults on a 2 week vacation
3 different years. Not many vehicles can do that with everybody still friends afterwards

 

Good to hear you got the door/locks working again!

 

Could you please send the diagram and directions for fixing the handle on our 2004 Mercury Monterey? Thank you!

 

The diagrams for a Freestar should be in your inbox. I don't have the ones for the Mercury.

 

Any chance on sending me those lift handle schematics.
Thanks Much!

 

On their way.