Tailgate compatibility for '73

[cysko9]

Been doing some searching for a while now but haven't come across anything that has provided a definitive answer for me.

What year tailgates will fit my 73 blazer? I've got a line on a clean 79 but want to make sure it'll work.

Thanks

[68Timber]

You're good, that's one part that didn't change over the years.

[cysko9]

Hm... ok. Well, that's good to know. I guess I was just confused by the LMC catalog. It shows 2 different part numbers and mentions the early version (73-76.5) using a bolt as opposed to a stud to attach the link to the tailgate.

Just wasn't sure what that was referring to or if it mattered (apparently it doesn't).

[68Timber]

Now you've got me curious, I'll have to check. I haven't owned them all but I thought the tailgate never changed.

[cysko9]

Here's the link to the catalog page:

http://www.lmctruck.com/icatalog/csb/full.aspx?Page=28

[68Timber]

Those tailgate differences apply to trucks that came without a removable hardtop and had pickup tailgates from the factory. Is that what you have? If you have the tailgate with glass in it there is only one model.

[cysko9]

Yeah mine is a 1973 full convertible. I got a line on mid-eighties tailgate as well as a late seventies tailgate. But if it doesn't matter I'll just go with whatever is cheaper

[68Timber]

Looks like you may have the change your tailgate links to match the later 'gate.

[cysko9]

Are the links the cable that holds it up?

[68Timber]

Yes but the catalog shows pickup links were used.

[cysko9]

Hmmm I know the pickups had the steel strips but every blazer I've seen has the wires.

[68Timber]

Yeah me too. That makes me think it originally had a hardtop and a previous owner changed out the tailgate for a pickup version. There's more than a few of those out there. Either way though, you know you can run whichever tailgate your bring home.

[dragonball98312]

I put an 89 tailgate on my 77 with no changes

[4 Wheelin Fudpucker]

I have a trailer made from a 73 pick up, its tailgate is off a 84 military M1008.
Which is a big Chevy pick up