Quote:
Originally Posted by 58CameoAZ
This is true they are stamped L and R and what i did on my stepside is
reversed the handings and instead of hooking the chain going threw the top of the hole, i inserted (with the handings reversed) the hook going threw the bottom of the hole and this seamed to help keep the hook away from the painted area of the bed, give it a try! fwiw,
Allen
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I never knew until this minute that the chains are stamped left and right - you learn something new everyday!
My dad taught me to insert the hook from the bottom-up on his '59 Fleetside and I've always considered it the "right" way to do it. That said, I don't think this would keep the paint from chipping on the tab the hook goes through or where an unprotected chain bumps on the paint. That's always going to be easy to chip.
I considered doing away with my tailgate chains but decided they're part of the charm of a 60 year old truck. On mine I HAVE used piece of "roadie" bicycle inner tubes as they fit tightly on the chain (YOur local bike shop will GIVE you all you can carry out of their trash) Problem is they don't last. They tear after awhile and of course they don't show the polished chain. But clear hoses turn dull or yellow - ugh.
Maybe putting the 3M film on the tab would minimize chipping, I don't know.
How difficult is it to install for the DIY'er?