98 4Runner rear door not opening

Does anyone know any tricks to getting the rear hatch of a 98 4Runner
open. I imaging that the latch is 'frozen'. I usually grease it every
few months, but it simply won't open anymore.

Any ideas???

07-30-06 09:18 Does the hand latch appear to work? If yes, try
pushing on the hatch near the bottom a little as you work the latch.
If no, then you may have to go from the inside. Good luck. Ed