Tailgate

[LDO]

I removed the tailgate from my 66 this past weekend to replace the trunions. Seems like even though I taped every edge I felt would/could get scratched, I did more damage than good!

Is there a 'secret' way of removing the tailgate without scratching the heck out of everything?

As far as I can tell, you remove the trunion mounting bolts then slide the entire thing up until it clears? Has anyone come up with some kind of modification to make it easier?

The 57 tailgate seems to be a better design as it easily disengages from the bed of the truck...

[LDO]

anyone????

[jbgroby]

Well without question this is a two person job slow and steady, less than two people, one side or the other will get scratched. Been there, done that.

[64fleetside]

I used lots of tape, many layers, even a rag or two taped down. Still had to touch up one tiny spot where it went thru 3 layers of tape. Four might have done it.

[198plus]

I loosen all the bolts on the rear cross sill and spread the top of bedside panels apart. They will still move a little with the factory spot welds in the bottom sill.

[Hx16457]

I had the same problem..Had two people, lots of tape, took my time, and
"touch up paint" is the key! Good luck! LOL

[LDO]

I wonder if anyone as looked into modifying the hinges/trunions to something like this for the tailgate:


and this for the bedsides:


Not sure if the amount of time invested would be worth it when compared to how many times you need the tailgate removed....but then again, I have been known to do some 'interesting' stuff just because....