Tailgate closing issue

[totalpackage]

For many years if my tailgate is not slammed hard, it will not lock in its tight position. Is will catch but wiggles 1-2 inches back and forth. What components need replacing on this. My 92 pick was same way but im ready to fix this on my 2 door 96 Tahoe.

 

[SunlitComet]

look for wear on the latch and hook assembly first.

 

[blueTahoeByron]

I have this same problem. Noticedone of the tailgate hinges is bent. Throws off the whole tailgate. Gotta slam it hard to get it to shut. And requires all of your body weight to get it back open