Ramjet51 67 SBFS BUILD

[Ramjet51]

I’ve cruised these pages, projects and probably missed the installation of mini rotary latches on the tailgate...why do this?
1. I like that I can hide them
2. I can remove the tailgate handle
3. I’m attempting to use stock bolt holes in tailgate and bed side
4. I’m doing this cheap..$30 for latches, $5.38 for two shoulder bolts, my time is free...I’m retired

I’m using a “Southco” latch and when I’ve got them totally adjusted and happy, I’ll probably replace with SS units. So, if you’re debating how robust these mini latches may be...they are rated at 1100 lbs.
Photo one is the latch
Photo two is where I build a plate to fit the original latch holes in the tailgate
Photo three is the latch mounted to the plate
Photo four is a bolt in position to give an indication of the striker bolt position
Photo five shows one side assembled, plate with chamfered holes and bolts used for assembly

My next post will show some additional details on building striker bolt mount....I’m using hardened shoulder bolts...

[Ramjet51]

Just in case you may be wondering, I did chamfer the holes in the plate.
1. The position required to mount the latch covers the lower bolt, therefore that bolt must be flush.
2. The lower latch bolt on the back needs to be flush as well to allow flush mounting of the plate to the bed
3. I tighten the lower bolt to the bed with a T handle Allen wrench between the latch jaws...

[Ramjet51]

I finally mounted the gas cap on the tank, although not meant to be, I drilled holes on the cap and made a wrench to turn the damn thing, I could never use just my finger to get it open. I also used a “Gates” powergrip heat shrink connector instead of hoses and clamps.

[Ramjet51]

Back to the striker bolts, they’re in but 1/4” too long, need to get shorter ones. Actuation links are in

[Ramjet51]

Picked up some tie downs at LKQ, probably paint same as bed

[Ramjet51]

I’ve been looking for a better look for the rear bumper...when the hotrod power tour came to Raleigh, I noticed that the Chevrolet performance 67 C10 had a modified rear bumper. It was really hard to see the shape but finally found a photo on the net that I could lighten to see the shape. Here it is...

[Ramjet51]

So...this is how to ruin a perfectly good bumper, albeit an aftermarket unit. First I attempted to map it out..

Then decided the cuts.....

[Ramjet51]

Made the cuts

[Ramjet51]

Tacked and shot some paint to see the “look”......later today I’ll finish welding, grinding and throw some filler on it...I’ve also welded up the lower slots and holes to give a cleaner look...

[rustytruck50]

Awesome!!! I think you pretty much nailed it!!

[Ramjet51]

On the truck.....now I’ll have to weld on the bolts while adjusting the fit to be higher than stock...little more work...

[Raleighswb]

Looks good,the details make all the difference! Which bedsides did you use?

[Ramjet51]

Originally Posted by raleighswb

looks good,the details make all the difference! Which bedsides did you use?

lmc fleetsides

[KevinK7]

Nice work, that bumper looks great