I'm finally fixing my tailgate so it latches properly. The previous owner somehow managed to bust the latch studs off. So he just screwed some swing latches(the kind used for shed doors, for use with a padlock) to the bed and tailgate and used them instead. My question is, how di I get the rest of the latch studs off?? THeir busted off with clean, should I try to drill them out?? Do they even sell replacements?? I hope yall know what I'm talkin about, the studs on the box that the tailgate latches hit and close 'round.

 

For what its worth; I'd try some e-z-outs before I bothered to drill.

 

I'm not positive, but I think the studs you are referring to are the same as those used on the doors. At any rate, you can find replacements. I would follow Popa Tim's advice and try to use the proper sized E-Z Out. You will have to drill a hole in the broken studs, but not so large as to damage the threads.

 

If the stud isn't broken off to far past flush, and you have access to a welder, weld a nut on it. Then you can just turn it out. I've used this method quite a few times for bolts that have broken off. Or, as stated before, an easy out should work....
jev