Newbie tailgate question

[HVACMAN]

I have the std. stamped tailgate and would like to add the rear trim panel and trim to match the side trim.
Does the upgrade Chevrolet panel cover the stamped portion or does that panel require a smooth tailgate? I know it probably requires a bunch of holes.
Thanks in advance!

[FirstOwner69]

It covers it.

[Richard]

Gm never made a smooth tailgate. The previous post is correct. If your gate is nice and you do not mind a flimsy aftermarket tailgate you can probably sell yours for the cost of a new smooth gate and trim. One thing to note is I have heard that the lettering on the aftermarket tailgate bands is plastic, unlike the original.

[HVACMAN]

Thanks guys! Don’t want change the gate.
Is drilling the holes as difficult as l envision?
Or does someone have a template or at least dimension for hole locations?
Was the rear panel always paired with the side trim?
Just think she’s kinda plain in the rear?

[67swb72klb]

Painting the letters is an option too..

[72c20customcamper]

Nice OEM gates are around I bought this on from a fellow member . I had purchased a nos from him but when he saw my truck at the place we met he had me follow him home and came out with this one .

[truckster]

Originally Posted by 67swb72klb

Painting the letters is an option too..

This would probably be my choice.

[Daron65]

Originally Posted by HVACMAN

Thanks guys! Don’t want change the gate.
Is drilling the holes as difficult as l envision?
Or does someone have a template or at least dimension for hole locations?
Was the rear panel always paired with the side trim?
Just think she’s kinda plain in the rear?

Beautiful truck.

[FirstOwner69]

Originally Posted by HVACMAN

Thanks guys! Don’t want change the gate.
Is drilling the holes as difficult as l envision?
Or does someone have a template or at least dimension for hole locations?
Was the rear panel always paired with the side trim?
Just think she’s kinda plain in the rear?

From the factory, there were only woodgrain tailgate bands. They, along with woodgrain side moldings, were included on the top trim levels (CST, Cheyenne and Cheyenne Super). Tailgate bands did not come with lower trim levels even if the truck was ordered with the the lower moldings and the lower moldings on these trucks would have been black. There are, however, after market bands with black in place of the woodgrain. From your picture, I'd assume you would buy the black version. These bands come with the holes already drilled. The screws are also available. Therefore, you can use the band as a template and drill the proper size holes using the screws as a guide. The only other concern would be the vertical positioning on the tailgate. You can look at LMC Truck's catalog to see these parts.

Here's a picture showing the original band on my '69 CST for reference.

[notsolo]

If your set on adding the tailgate band best to have it for marking the holes. Original gate metal is heavy, a couple new drill bits....diagram is in 10th's of an inch to add to your difficulty's.

[sick472]

Definately use your forthcoming new band as a template for hole locations.