tailgate build
Hotshot
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 12,170
Likes: 5
From: The hills of No. Calif.
Expanded metal, especially the heavy variety, should be strong enough to handle the job...it really depends on how much of a beating the tailgate will have to take. Do you plan on setting anything heavy right on the tailgate when it's open? I know I'm always setting trannies, engine blocks, differentials and things partly on the tailgate till I can shove them on into the bed, so my tailgate sees a bit of weight from time to time.
Are you planning to leave the center open with just the horizontal rails you've put in, or are you putting mesh or something over them?
Are you planning to leave the center open with just the horizontal rails you've put in, or are you putting mesh or something over them?
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Senior User
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 347
Likes: 0
From: Kempner/Waco, TX
Thank you for the picture of the metal meshes. I was just wondering if maybe i should put some rods across on the side rectangles though. I used my ranger's tailgate when i brought a motor home so i kinda want this one to be able to take the abuse that one has.
Hotshot
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 12,170
Likes: 5
From: The hills of No. Calif.
So you mean go with the mesh and the rods? That would beef it up for sure. How about welding in the rods on the end sections either vertical or diagonal just to change it up visually?
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Senior User
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 347
Likes: 0
From: Kempner/Waco, TX
yeah i was thinking about putting in 1 inch square rod going in at an angle, with maybe a 4 inch gap in between the rods.
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Cranky Old Guy
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 3,562
Likes: 6
From: Raphine, Virginia
Like to see what you are doing for latches. I've got one almost finished except for that and welding the mesh on. I'm using what appears to be HK-10. I did use 1X2 for the side pieces.
