[hit_4_show]

I am not seriously considering this at the current time. Just curious to read others thoughts. Do you have any ideas for structural reinforcement of a flimsy, aftermarket tailgate, costing less than $100? I wonder if panel bonding a single piece of sheet metal to the front, with a single bend to wrap around the bottom, would be practical and add much support. Maybe rivets also. Would need a cutout for the hardware near the middle. I have access to a large sheet metal brake. I do not know if I could put a bend at the top also, and have the dimensions correct.

 

[Rhotpursuit]

Why the need for reinforcement?

 

[bk2life]

Why the need for reinforcement?

Zombies...

 

[hit_4_show]

Why the need for reinforcement?

Have mulled using color-matched, aftermarket tailgate for a budget daily driver. Suspect it would be far too weak for my preference, though. Do not want to continue searching for a used, GM unit in the correct color. Sick of that.

 

[2.2s101995]

Where did you find an aftermarket tailgate for under $100?

 

[hit_4_show]

Where did you find an aftermarket tailgate for under $100?

Asking for reinforcement ideas < $100, not the tailgate. MBI Auto through ebay offers color-matched, fleetside, 2nd Gen S-truck gate shells occasionally at reduced price of $260-$280 + tax shipped. Reviews for MBI's gates seem consistent: good color match; paint pretty good but not great; occasional, minor shipping damage; thin sheet metal (flimsy); more prone to rust than OEM. Flimsy enough to potentially buckle if kneeling in center of it when flipped down. However, up till recently, could get what I suspect is a similar gate shell in primer from 1 - or more sources on ebay for ~$100. $900-$1100 for a painted, GM unit from a reputable body shop far too expensive for my budget truck.

 

[Salty Crusty]

I won't use ANY aftermarket panels on any of my vehicles. I've seen too much of this crap. Ill fitting panels, holes in the wrong place, thin metal, the list goes on and on.

Buy once, cry once most times, but this one is a no-brainer. You're still going to have to pay to have the cheapo painted, same as the real McCoy.

OEM junk yard piece will be half as much and twice as good.

I can grab you at least 2 or 3 from my local wrench a part with zero damage. Have your local body shop match it.