So I am installing my alarm and was interested in doing a rear hatch opener. Kind of like a power lift gate that Cheby's and GMC's have. Does anyone know how I can do this. I know that the latch is controlled electronically but when the button on the hatch is pressed the hatch doesn't open, it has to be pulled open. I am interested in the hatch opening on it's own when the button on the hatch is pressed.

You would have to get some sort of actuator and install that in with the lock mechanism. The principle of what you are looking for is what alot of people have done when the shave the handles off of there doors. I would do some research into shaved door handles and check out some different mechanisms that people use for that. I know its not the answer you are looking for but its a start.

Great thinking! Actually this is a great start in the direction I want to go. Anyone have personal experience in this arena??? Any input would be greatly appreciated. And thank you outtaMYbox!

SmartAss has it done

IF you are trying to get it to open a few inches thats simple. You can fold a coat hanger in half and put it in your weather stripped or use a tiny shock like what you see on bikes and use that to push it out the few inches.

If you want it to open up and down you are looking to be around the $1000 range. You need a 500-1000lbs actuator due to the leverage it will need to pull the hatch down. If you ever see n a Quest van and their actuator its easier to understand. But it is a little complicated but can be done.

The easiet thing to do would be do an actuator in the top covers of the door that moved 4 inches and has a limiter switch that reverses it and goes back down. This will open the truck automatically but close it manually. Which would also keep the price really low and keep from having to change the latch.

bump

why not jack the stuff from a Lexus SUV (RXx00)
it opens and shuts the gate...might get lucky with connectors too??
just a suggestion as I have not researched this option fully