Hey guys im gonna go out on a limb here and assume this has been asked but i couldnt find it on the search option. What are the differences with the tail gates from 48-50 and 51-52 and can you use the older ones on a 52? Thanks guys!

 

The location of the chain latch on the later models in in a different location. You can always cut it off and re weld it in the other position.

Newer (51/52) tailgates were reinforced on the top rolled edge.

 

Thanks Julie thats all i need to hear.

 

Also, if you're going after a used gate make sure it's the correct gate for your model truck. The F-1 tailgate is slightly smaller than the one used on F-2 & F-3 models.

BTW, here are the images from the Dan Carpenter web site pertaining to tailgates. Ford changed the design of the box, along with the tailgate in the mid 1950 model year:

'42 to mid '50:



Late '50 to '52

 

Thanks Bob that was really helpful.

 

Here's a tailgate I just picked up today. It's from a late 1950-1952 F1.

 

Then the Canadian 51-52 trucks had block letters instead of the script to mix things up.