C 1500 Truck 2WD V8-5.3L VIN T (1999)
2.
With the tailgate (1) completely open as shown in the upper part of the illustration, pull the RIGHT SIDE of the tailgate rearward as shown in the
lower illustration. Do not pull on the left side of the tailgate.
^
If the tailgate hinge (2) will NOT disengage from the pickup box on the right side, no repair is needed to the hinge. Proceed to the section
titled, "Support Cable Replacement," and replace any support cables that HAD sealant in the earlier inspection. If neither of the support cables
require replacement, no further action is required.
^
If the tailgate hinge (3) will disengage from the pickup box on the right side, proceed to the next step.
3.
With the right side of the tailgate disengaged from the pickup box, inspect the hinge on the right side of the tailgate for damage. The illustration
above shows an undamaged hinge (1), and a damaged or bent hinge (2).
^
If the hinge is NOT damaged, no repair is needed to the hinge. Proceed to the section titled, "Support Cable Replacement" and replace any
support cables that HAD sealant in the earlier inspection. If neither of the support cables require replacement, no further action is required.
^
If the hinge IS damaged or bent, the hinge needs to be replaced. Proceed to the section titled, "Hinge Replacement".
Hinge Replacement
The following procedure should only be performed if the right side of the tailgate could be disengaged from the pickup box.
1.
Release (unhook) the left side tailgate support cable from the pickup box.
2.
Remove the tailgate from the vehicle.
3.
Remove the two bolts attaching the right side hinge to the tailgate.
Important:
The NEW hinge being installed must be primed and painted in the body color prior to installation.
