1969 C20 Tail Gate
 

The tail gate on my '69 will need to be replace at some point ( it's bowed out ) is there a good after market brand to replace it with or should I hunt down ( if possible ) a good used one ?

Thanks

Re: 1969 C20 Tail Gate
 

Most will probably agree to find a good original one. The fit almost always is better. IU have had aftermarket ones and they were good, but the originals just see to line up so much nicer.

Re: 1969 C20 Tail Gate
 

I have a 72 and did not like the "banded" lettering across the tailgate for that year, prefer the raised lettering. So before paint I bought an aftermarket tailgate, looks really nice but that's about it. Metal is so thin I wouldn't even want to stand on it when open, and as mentioned above the fit is marginal at best. Since my truck has morphed into a non working truck, just cruising only, it's ok for me, but if you want a good heavy duty one then my suggestion is bite the bullet and pony up for an OEM.

Here's a pic, all hat/no cowboy.....

Re: 1969 C20 Tail Gate
 

Thanks !

Re: 1969 C20 Tail Gate
 

If you can't or don't have the time to locate a good original - I would check with MAR-K.
They make great quality parts primarily for step beds here in USA - as close to original quality as there is. For the few products they don't make themselves, they claim to source the best available.
They do offer a fleet side tail gate but it is an outside source and not their stamping. I would still look into it though.
Someone here may chime in with experience on how good it is or who they source it from.