Installing a replacement tailgate shell on my 3rd Gen 1500 (2004)

[Gary1954]

I want to replace the tailgate on my 3rd Gen and am considering getting a primed steel shell and then painting it to match. They're reasonably priced at approx $200, but I'm wondering how difficult it is to transfer all the hardware from the old tailgate to it. Does anyone have experience installing one of these tailgate shells?

 

[HemiLonestar]

Might be cheaper/easier to just replace it.

 

[Gary1954]

Sorry, maybe I wasn't clear. I am trying to replace the tailgate. A new tailgate with the mechanical parts (handle, release mechanisms, hinges, etc.) which runs about $600. A less expensive alternative seems to be buying just a steel tailgate shell which runs between $150-$200 and then transferring the mechanical parts from the old tailgate to it. Just wondering if anyone has bought one of these tailgate shells and transferred the mechanical parts to it and, if so, how difficult a job that was. For example, do the old parts just bolt in or is there welding involved? Thanks!

 

[HemiLonestar]

Ah. If it's made right then everything should just bolt in.

 

[Mysfyt]

These tail gates have a huge access panel in the back. Changing over components should be pretty straight forward. Removing the fasteners from the old will probably be the challenge

 

[HemiLonestar]

Should add a power remote lock while you're at it.

 

[RPMRamFury]

What about the thickness/quality of metal in the replacement vs the oem one?

 

[GTyankee]

At the bottom corners of the tailgate, you will see the parts that the tailgate pivots on.
Those would be the parts that may be rusted on
Spray some PB Blaster on the nuts & bolts, as well as the pivot points inside the tailgate.

You can buy new tailgate bushings if your current ones are too banged up or corroded

Tailgate Pivot Bushing Set For 2002-2008 Dodge Ram 1500 & 03-09 Ram 2500 3500
Less than $20 a pair

2004 dodge ram tailgate hardware - Google Search

You can also buy a tailgate lock that fits on the tailgate bushing, made my McGard

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