Thread: Stude M5 build

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The only other idea I might offer is maybe shop on ebay or the like and see if you can't score something that you can work with/modify. Even if it isn't long enough for instance you can maybe just use'em under the doors..

Or something like that.. LOL.. I wonder if you'll even need a running board? Maybe add a short step on a bracket? Or a polished aluminum square pad with some design in it/ on it...

I think I can rule out the tubing idea. I cut some 2x6 down the middle today to make a back panel for under the tailgate and it totally pretzeled up on me. I guess there are a lot of forces in tubing just waiting to get out.

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I had some 16 gauge bent up for the rear finish panel and running boards. Also welded in some brackets for the tailgate pivots.

Again nice work!

Originally Posted by stovens

Again nice work!

Times 2. Coming along nicely. Thanks for the updates.

Thanks guys. Any suggestions on clever ways to latch the tailgate? I don't want to use chains.

Originally Posted by v8nutz

Thanks guys. Any suggestions on clever ways to latch the tailgate? I don't want to use chains.

Do you still want it to operate? If it is open, will it hang straight down and not hit the lower pan or bumper?
Just thinking out loud. I've seen some guys weld it or bolt it closed.

I have seen some pretty cool hydrolic in bed lowing "shocks" like what is used to raise and lower rear hatches on SUV's, with pin latches that secure the gate when closed. Here is something similar with tailgate supports that are hinged steet that fold close with the gate, vs. the shock/struts with a great install photo sequence!
How To Install Hidden Tailgate Latches - Classic Chevy Truck - Brothers Classic Truck Parts

here is another system with plastic coated cables that I mau try on my 48 F1
https://www.lmctruck.com/1948-56-for...gate-latch-kit

that second setup is nice. Thanks Steve.

It's nice but to expensive for me .

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I got my exhaust finished out the back.

Originally Posted by v8nutz

I got my exhaust finished out the back.

That came out really nice!

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I got these stainless spring latches for the tailgate. Using stainless nutzerts to screw them on, broke the mandrel so have to wait to finish the install, Probably my fault for over tightening the tool.

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I tried to modify the Explorer filler neck but it would not weld, some kind of weird coating on it I guess, so I got a 2 1/4 stainless cap adapter and a cap. I had to reduce it to 1 1/8, that was a fair amount of work to make the cone and fab a 1 1/8 tube. This will poke through the wood bed.