Tools needed
1 flathead screwdriver
1 3/8 Ratchet
1 T50 torx
1 T27 torx
1 7/16 Socket
1 extra set of hands (if available) to help put it on.
1 electric/battery powered drill


Step one Remove tailgate cover to access handle/lock assembly. This will require the T27 with 8 torx head screws.

Step Two Remove both retaining nuts that hold in the handle/lock assembly

Step Three Remove retaining clip to remove keyed lock

Step Four Remove tailgate straps (as pictured) with an assist of an flathead screwdriver


Step 5 Remove Tailgate by lining up the hole and lifting the passenger side of the tailgate first, then keep pulling towards passenger side.

Step 6 Remove the Driver Side Tailgate hinge. This will require the T50 and 3/8 Ratchet to remove the retaining bolts. Hinge as pictured


Step 7 Install new Painted 2008 Driver Side hinge (inexpensive to get at Ford Dealer) due to the new torsion bar assembly on the inside of the gate . Have it painted to avoid problems in the future. On a Tech Note: In case this happens to you cause it did me, Make sure you get 2 extra retaining bolts in case they strip out. Here is an picture of the hinge (now this isn't mine, I forgot to take a picture of it before the install) This will require the same tools as in step six.


Step 8 You are now ready to place the tailgate on the truck. Place it on the driver side hinge first. Then line up the hole for the passenger side. This is where you may need an extra set of hands as it can be kinda heavy.

Step 9 attach tailgate straps

Step 10 Remove all torx head screws from new tailgate to access handle. Same tools as step 1.

Step 11 Repeat step 2

Step 12 Repeat step 3

Step 13 Place lock cylinder in new handle assembly, re secure retaining clip

Step 14 Install handle/lock assembly back into tailgate and tighten both retaining nuts.

Step 15 Install Cover back over handle/lock assembly this only requires 9 inch pounds of torque.

Step 16 Close Tailgate and check for adjustments. If adjustments are needed use your T50 and 3/8 Ratchet.

Here is the completed project

Before



After











This is the end thanks for reading

 

awesome post man. saved to my favorites for when i do this mod!

 

Great looking mod have you considered adding the 08+ bumpers on the back?

 

Not at this time by maybe in future

 

Nice writeup and pics!

 

I have to admit I do like the updated tailgate. If I could find a nice white one cheap, I would probably do that to mine also. Then add the 08 tail lights and call it done.

 

Here is an side by side of the two. One on the left is the original, one on the right is the 2008.

 

I do like how the finally made that body line on the gate match to something lol

 

Looks good. The write up and pics will be helpful to others good job.

 

How was the fit? perfectly matched? l-r any adjusment needed? top of tailgate match to bedsides? Did you buy the step top part?

 

I had to adjust both driver side hinge and passenger side striker. Maybe related to prior accident thus the reason for the replacement of the tailgate. This is the non step model, couldn't afford the step option.

 

Do you think the step option would fit the exact same way? That looks really good! I'm saving this to my favorites for future use

 

I believe the step is the same way, they have the same hinge (aka Roller) I believe

 

very nice....how much was the new tailgate?

 

Nice job bro, I guess I will add this to the list.......lol