Lift off tailgate mod

[skorpioskorpio]

Although it's been mentioned in a couple threads before, there isn't a good thread on the specifics of this. My understanding is that you can replace the trunnions in the '67-72s with trunnions from some later model in the '73-87 series, which specific years, I don't know, and then notch the hinge cup in the tailgate. One thread says the fit is a little sloppy, another says it works perfect, I'd like to know what the real deal is, and pictures if anyone has some. The only thread with pics, they're all dead.

[AirSpeed]

I would think about welding a steel bushing in the cup to strengthen it up. Seems like it would be a lot weaker with a chunk cut out.

[hugger6933]

I am gonna look into the later model stuff either 88-98 or 99-07 cause that is what I have laying around, when I get back to that end of one of my trucks. Jim

[skorpioskorpio]

Originally Posted by AirSpeed

I would think about welding a steel bushing in the cup to strengthen it up. Seems like it would be a lot weaker with a chunk cut out.

All the newer GMs have had this feature from the factory for the last 20-30 years and with almost identical construction to the 67-72 style except with one cup notched and one trunnion being double D shaped as opposed to both round like ours. I don't think it is a notable weak spot of any of these newer trucks.

[john]

Here's an old post on tailgate mod.
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?p=828802

[Billhilly]

Here's a thread I just started the other day - http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=630267. You can see the modified trunnion in the first post. My gate is at the panel shop right now (sorry no pics) but we sat the gate at 45degrees and cut the appropriate slot. Can't see it being any sloppier than normal because gravity sits it hard down on the trunnions (which are pretty sloppy anyway) and the latch and locator deal above that will hold as good as normal. Would still like to see a good picture of a late model gate too.

[Billhilly]

Got my gate back from the panel shop last night. It fit's on and off just fine. Just open to about 45 degrees and lift up the right hand end. Does appear to be a bit sloppier because it doesn't have the 'sides' of the full circle anymore. I think when latched this will be hardly noticeable. I think I've copied the trunnion correctly.
Would still like to see a 'proper' gate...

[67ctener]

I would be very interested in this, thanks for bringing it up

[1966chevy]

1967-1972 and 1958-1966 Truck Fleetside Tailgate, Ultimate hinge Trunnion (6 Piece Set) made of Stainless Steel and Delrin. Now offering the complete SET!
These are replacement hinge trunnion parts to upgrade your chevy fleetside truck.
These are perfect for the truck restorer!

These are Very quite while opening and closing the tailgate.

See my attached link if your interested in purchasing"
http://www.ebay.com/itm/171709176937...#ht_559wt_1094

I also offer a cheaper version, Made of all Stainless steel on this listing:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/171709178087...#ht_413wt_1094

http://www.ebay.com/itm/171709177915...#ht_463wt_1094

I also in the works on building 67-72 trunnion hinges.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/171709178881...#ht_430wt_1094


Website is: http://tdtrunniondesign.com

My project, http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=552896
66 chevy truck Fleetside LS1
67 Camaro Convertible 327

[RPBurris]

Subscribed. I would like to be able to switch out tailgates pretty easily to. Combine this with the strap conversion and you are set!

[sstaten69]

I had my tailgate stolen before its pretty easy on the newer trucks, my son said he likes that its a pain to take his off so guess we will leave it alone for know

[swamp rat]

Originally Posted by skorpioskorpio

Although it's been mentioned in a couple threads before, there isn't a good thread on the specifics of this. My understanding is that you can replace the trunnions in the '67-72s with trunnions from some later model in the '73-87 series, which specific years, I don't know, and then notch the hinge cup in the tailgate. One thread says the fit is a little sloppy, another says it works perfect, I'd like to know what the real deal is, and pictures if anyone has some. The only thread with pics, they're all dead.

Just an FYI, the 72 is the same as the 67, 73-78 are the same, maybe thru to 87.

something that may interest you? there are trunions available on Flea bay that are a nylon or similar material made for quietness, don't know if they make them for 73 and up.

[1966chevy]

1967-1972 and 1958-1966 Chevy Truck Fleetside Tailgate, Ultimate hinge Trunnion (6 Piece Set) made of Stainless Steel and Delrin.
1953-1987 Chevy Truck Stepside Tailgate, Ultimate Trunnion (4 Piece Set) made of Stainless Steel and Delrin. Now offering the complete SET!
These are replacement hinge trunnion parts to upgrade your chevy truck.
These are perfect for the truck restorer! Website is: http://tdtrunniondesign.com

They were mentions in the following:

Hotrod Magazine
Classic Truck Magazine
As the "Silent gate"

C10 Source journal
Stainless Steel C10 Trunnions
Website is: http://c10source.com/c10-journal/page/2/


#chevytrucks #trunnions #c10source #hotrodmagazine #classictruckmagazine