Tailgate hinges

[clemsonteg]

I installed new tailgate hinges and trunnions today on my 70 fleet side. I noticed that the hinge on the driver side seems spring loaded or something and clicks into the gap when closing the gate. When I go to let the gate down again I have to pull the hinge away from the gate to let it all the way down. Is that normal?

[FirstOwner69]

Do you mean strap rather than hinge? If so, that's not normal.

[clemsonteg]

It's the latch/link arms that hold the tailgate

[clemsonteg]

I found a few threads about collapsible arms that hold the gate at a 45* angle which seems to be what mine is doing.

[specialtyretail]

They should work smoothly and drop to a 90 degree level. I have seen them installed backwards before,, just an idea..

[clemsonteg]

Originally Posted by specialtyretail

They should work smoothly and drop to a 90 degree level. I have seen them installed backwards before,, just an idea..

Thanks. They are installed correctly. I believe my problem is the aftermarket tailgate. Seems to have a little extra metal on the edges when compares to the factory gate. I plan to hit it with the grinder today which should clear things up.