Hi All,

Been looking at some threads and haven't found exactly what I'm looking for. Can someone tell me how these trim clips go on for the tailgate chrome panels? The PO took these off and kept the clips and I have a rivet set. Just not sure if the clips glue on or if I rivet the tailgate itself like the side trim? Thanks in advance for help.

 

The plastic clip is used on the long horizontal mouldings and isn't used on the decor panel.

The metal clips go over the decor panel flange, the panel is positioned on the tailgate, and is then riveted (or screwed) through the clip.

 

So will I have to drill holes on the inside of the tailgate to screw into the metal clips?

 

Yes, you will have to drill holes for the screws. Screws on inside of tailgate. I would use stainless screws.

 

Correctamundo....

First center the decor panel on the tailgate... I like to find and mark the center of the tailgate and decor panel then line them up. Now position it vertically.

Lay a strip of masking tape all the way across the back of the decor panel and mark/trace where it needs to be drilled. Then transfer the masking tape to the inside of the tailgate. Then do the same for the upper holes.

BEWARE!! Be very exact in making sure the holes are horizontal AND that the other row of holes is properly located vertically. Take your time, measure three times or more.. drill once!

To stave off rust, I suggest wadding up some 3M strip caulk and pushing it into the hole before tightening the screws.

Good luck!

 

I can send you the where to drill measurements off a tail gate I have taken that panel off of. Just to be able to triple check your measurements before you drill.....

 

I think the masking tape trick should work well. My wife said she saw this on pintrest... I'll let you know how it turns out. Thanks for the help!

 

So the masking tape trick worked like a charm!

Put it on the back of the trim and poked the holes



after I marked the center lines I transferred to the tailgate



Then I drilled the holes and everything lined up almost perfectly. Then I did the bigger upper piece. This one was a little more challenging due to the studs on the sides but I used the same method.



Now to hunt down the rest of the trim pieces at the JY...

 

Awesome job!

Ford. Our Minds Are Always Racing.

 

Which pieces do you need? Another member sent me a bunch of the thin upper and lower trim for a song. None of it is perfect but a little work and it would look good. I'de be glad to pass on the good fortune. If I have what you need, its yours for shipping cost. PM me and let me know.

 

Thank you for the offer. I am going to dig around in the JY this weekend and I'll let you know. Sometimes I stumble upon a nice piece for a few $. Sometimes I can't find a single truck.