The bottom of my tailgate is spent (big surprise) !!!
My question is:

Is there suppose to be a tube inserted and welded to the tailgate, that slips over the tailgate mounting bracket pivot shaft ? Or did someone do a
Butch job on this ?

Was or is there suppose to be a bushing on the tailgate or mtg shaft ?

As it stands now (on mine) it looks like a tube, at one point, was welded
inside the tailgate, that slipped over the mtg bracket pivot shaft.

Now, this tube is fused/rusted onto the mtg bracket pivot shaft.
and there is a broken weld where this tube was inserted into the tailgate,
and the tailgate now is rotating on the tube.
(the tube is approx 3" long with about a 0.75 I.D. with 0.060 wall thickness)


Any explanation of the tailgate assembly would be greatly appreciated...

 

...Welcome to Ford Truck Enthusiasts!

See you on the boards. ….

 

yep, should be a tube welded into the end of the tailgate.

probably become part of the pivot by now, might heat it and get it loose but i doubt it.

i have used a peice of 3/4 pipe for a bushing before. would be nice if it was brass with a grease groove in it.

 

THANK YOU !!!
I fugured as much. If I can, I'm going to fab the bottom roll
to accept a brass flanged bushing. I know it won't be stock but....
function to me, is better. I'll let you know if it fits !!!
I'l photo it before. during and after and try to post.
Cross your fingers !!! (mine too)