How to Change Chevrolet Tailgate Brackets

Without a tailgate, the bed of your truck isn't very useful. That's why if the tailgate brackets on your Chevrolet truck are broken, you'll probably want to replace them. These brackets hold the pivot point for the tailgate at the bottom, and allow it to open and close freely. In this case, the project vehicle is a 2004 Chevrolet Silverado, but the process is similar for other Chevrolet vehicles as well.

Instructions

1

Remove the tailgate. Grab the tailgate handle and open the tailgate until it's at a 45-degree angle to the bed. Pull the clips on the tailgate straps away from the bolt on the side of the bed using your hands, and release the tailgate straps from the bed. Pull the passenger side of the tailgate towards you, so that the tailgate pulls off of the bracket, and then pull the tailgate to the right so that it slides off of the other tailgate bracket. Carry the tailgate to a safe spot and place it down.

2

Remove and replace brackets. Unbolt the tailgate brackets from the bed using the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket. Bolt the replacement mounts onto the bed in the same manner as the stock models.

3

Put the tailgate back on. Pick up the tailgate and slide the left side of the tailgate onto the driver's side tailgate bracket. Pivot the tailgate at a 45-degree angle to the vertical face of the bed, and slide the passenger side of the tailgate onto the right side tailgate bracket. Slide the tailgate straps onto the bolts on the side of the bed where they were mounted previously. Shut the tailgate and open it again, making sure that it works correctly.