Bolting up a 1966 tailgate hinge- help needed
 

I thought that I would need 2 of the 3/8 - 24 hex bolts that mount the tailgate hinge (trunion) to the side panel but there is only one threaded hole. I assume that I should get a 3/8 - 16 for the other hole and use a lock washer and nut on the backside so its not exposed? The diagram looks like I should have 2 threaded holes but it doesnt.

What the right way to attach the hinge?

Re: Bolting up a 1966 tailgate hinge- help needed
 

I think there's some sort of nut cage or something welded to the back of the panel. My guess is that over time, that one fell off

Re: Bolting up a 1966 tailgate hinge- help needed
 

There was a threaded insert welded to the inside of that panel. You will need to work out a way to get a nut in there. Here is a link to rivet style inserts. https://www.mcmaster.com/blind-rivet-nuts/ the next issue you have with you panted panels is the rear cross brace should be welded to the two sides. You can see the spots on the panel you pictured where the weld was.
Jimmy

Re: Bolting up a 1966 tailgate hinge- help needed
 

If you weld, here's a suggestion to fix the hole ...
1. Looks like there isn't a hole in the back piece of sheet metal, if there isn't, go ahead and make roughly a 25/64" clearance hole for the 3/8-24 bolt
2. Around the edge of the existing hole, drill a small hole at 12, 3, 6, and 9 o'clock
3. Between the 2 pieces of sheet metal, get a jam nut up to the hole and thread a long screw or all-thread into it to hold it in place
4. Pull the nut tight towards you and tack in place through the 4 holes
5. Have a beer

If that's not in the cards, I second PGSigns rivet nut suggestion.

Re: Bolting up a 1966 tailgate hinge- help needed
 

Thanks fellas, I'll use the same 3/8-24 x maybe 3/4 length? I lost the bolts years back when this was dismantled and dont have a reference on the length. If so I will get a 3/8-24 nut. I wonder why the fine thread was used vs the 16 course type? Tighter fit I guess?

Re: Bolting up a 1966 tailgate hinge- help needed
 

It does look like on that cut away drawing that there was a plate slid up in there with two threaded holes. Maybe slide one up there with only one threaded hole if the top one is already in place.

Re: Bolting up a 1966 tailgate hinge- help needed
 

The easiest solution to your problem is to take PGSIGN's advice and install a Nut-Sert (blind threaded rivet). You can buy the installation tool and an assorted supply of rivets for a reasonable price online. They're especially handy when you are working by yourself and you can't reach both sides of the hardware at the same time, like a body panel for example. i use mine all the time.

Re: Bolting up a 1966 tailgate hinge- help needed
 

My way doesn't cost a nickel and a few years down the road if rust sets in the bolt will still come out without the nut-cert or riv-nut or whatever turning round and round. Of course, you will need a drill and a tap and a piece of metal plate but most of us have that stuff on hand.