I guess the same parts are used as on the '99 Explorer. I had same problem last week. It was not the actuator, the handle assy. had to be replaced. The local Ford dealer had three in stock! He said it was a fast moving item.
Square the top with the bed best you can with the one pannel locked.(My 03 jammed on the front pannel). Left to right as well as front to back. Then close the other half and let it lock. You should then be able to unlock either pannel. You will need a few choice words, a friend to tell you...
Todd, Will you be talking to Ford guys? Could you ask if a new grill is in the works? this is somthing they can change without a major vehicle re-design. The current VW/Nissan chrome grill could be why regular explorer sales are slipping and the cleaner looking Chevys are doing better.
Maryland public TV is running Motorweek at 8:ooPM. One of the featured vehicles will be our favorite subject. If your in the area, you might want to check it out.
It looks like the cap locks have been reinstalled on the outside (top) of cap. Is this optical delusion or some mod I don"t know about? Trac looks great.
Thanks guys. Had (still have) same problem when trac came back from body shop. Hair fell slowly on its own for a while, then stoped. Will give air a try.