2002 CHEVROLET AVALANCHE midgate

2-71
2. Remove the two
bows (B) by gently
pushing them against
the spring
-loaded end.
Set the bows aside.
3. With the midgate lowered (see ªMidgateº in the
Index) enter the rear passenger compartment of
the vehicle.
4. Remove the front rail (A) (near the midgate) by first
twisting up the edge nearest you (this helps clear
the midgate seals) and then pulling it out from the
side rails.

2-80
Reinstalling the Cargo Cover Panels
You only need to reinstall as many cargo panels as you wish.
1. Remove the cargo panel(s) from the storage bag.
You can either leave the bag attached to the side of
the cargo area while it is not in use, or you can store
it outside of the vehicle.
2. Starting with cargo panel 1, place the latches in the
open (unlocked) position. Place cargo panel 1 on the
cargo area rails while holding the back of the cargo
panel up.
Left Side Shown, Right Side Similar
Push the panel forward until it is snug against the
Midgate and then let the back of the panel down
being sure that the alignment pegs align with the
receivers (see arrow).

2-83
7. Push the latches away from you (start with the left
latch) to lock the panel in place. You should hear a
click when each latch locks correctly.
All-Weather Cargo Area
Your vehicle is designed to operate in many different
configurations (cargo panels on or off, Midgate up or
down) and is equipped with features that will help the
vehicle resist the elements. Some of the features that
help with this include the top drain grates, side rail
channels, Midgate drain and cargo area floor drains.
Depending on the conditions in which the vehicle is
used, you may need to perform some maintenance to
the top drain grates, side rail channels, Midgate drain
and cargo area floor drains. This will help ensure that
they operate properly.

2-86
Midgate Drain Grate Removal and Cleaning
The Midgate drain grate is located near the base of the
Midgate (the Midgate side facing outside). You will
find a removable drain grate covering the drain.After hauling dirt, wood chips, pebbles etc. you will
need to flush the midgate drain with water. But first
you will have to remove the drain grate by using the
following steps:
1. Lower the Midgate. See ªMidgateº in the Index for
more information.
2. Pull up on the rear (side opposite the Midgate) of
the drain grate.
3. Tilt the drain grate away from you and pull it
straight out.
Reverse the procedure to reinstall the drain grate.

7-18 At Least Once a Year
Key Lock Cylinders Service
Lubricate the key lock cylinders with the lubricant
specified in Part D.
Body Lubrication Service
Lubricate all hood latch assembly, secondary latch,
pivots, spring anchor, release pawl, midgate hinges, side
storage box door hinges, tailgate hinge, tailgate linkage,
outer tailgate handle pivot points, latch bolt, fuel door
hinge, locks and folding seat hardware. Part D tells you
what to use. More frequent lubrication may be required
when exposed to a corrosive environment.Starter Switch Check
CAUTION:
When you are doing this check, the vehicle could
move suddenly. If it does, you or others could be
injured. Follow the steps below.
1. Before you start, be sure you have enough room
around the vehicle.
2. Firmly apply both the parking brake and the regular
brake. See ªParking Brakeº in the Index if necessary.
Do not use the accelerator pedal, and be ready to turn
off the engine immediately if it starts.
3. Try to start the engine in each gear. The starter
should work only in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N).
If the starter works in any other position, your
vehicle needs service.