Thread: Tailgate Latches

Have you got the correct locking plates on your tail gate? They come in two thicknesses ,3/16" and 5/16". .W.

The locks are welded on. Are you using the correct seals and bumper rubber?

John

Originally Posted by B.S.F.Nut

Have you got the correct locking plates on your tail gate? They come in two thicknesses ,3/16" and 5/16". .W.

Didn't know that. Thanks, I'll check- maybe one of them is thicker than the other.

C00P

Originally Posted by JDNSW

The locks are welded on. Are you using the correct seals and bumper rubber?

John

As far as I know. I replaced them a while back. Only one side is tight- I have to lean hard on the tailgate to get that side to lock at all (only goes to the first notch). It's hard to get undone, and the Navigator has real problems with it and often uses a rock to knock the latch up.
I may just have to remove the ring fitting and bend it a bit- seems like that is the only method of adjustment!

C00P

Originally Posted by C00P

How are the tailgate latches attached to the bodywork? On the inside there appears to be a weld, and I wondered if they were screwed onto a welded stud. I have one that is very tight and I'd like to space it out a little. I considered bending the ring on the tailgate but it is pretty thick steel and probably won't bend easily. If the latch unscrews I could just slip a washer behind it.
Anyone dismantled these?

C00P

Hi C00P,

As John said they are welded to the corner plate. When I built a trailer I had the same problem so drilled it carefully from the back and fitted a spacer like you mention to one with a thread fitted through the enlarged hole.
They are called "antiluce" fasteners.

I bought some here:
UES, the truck, bus etc bodybuilding suppliers:
They are always very helpful and have an enormous range of fittings!!!

https://uesint.com/

Locations: - they have a branch in SA - 16 Tikalara Street,Regency Park SA 5010
https://uesint.com/locations/

Here's the antiluce range - https://uesint.com/'s=antiluce&s_cs=true

Bob