#15
Installation Instructions for
El Camino Tailgate
We have made the installation of the Tailgate as easy as possible,
yet we advise that you read the entire instructions CAREFULLY. Take
your time and apply some craftsmanship. The results will be worth
the effort!
NOTE: This is a fiberglass tailgate. Please treat it as such to
prevent damage!
Bed Adjustments
A) Bed Adjustment- Loosen large Phillips screw and hex bolt for in
and out adjustments, slight up and down adjustments.
B) Tailgate Adjustment- Loosen both Phillips screws for slight in
and out, up and down adjustments.
C) Tailgate Adjustments- Up and down, in and out, side to side
adjustments. This is the most versatile adjustment on your
tailgate. You may have to remove the two hex bolts and spray some
lubricate to release these adjustments. It must move freely for
adjustments. Once lubricated and cleaned from debris, reinstall
bracket and both hex bolts, loosely, to pry free. If GM spacers are
present, remove and work from there. GM spacers may be used for
additional out-spacing.
D) License Plate Housing- Four hex bolts retain the license plate
housing and must be removed to do this installation.
E) Tailgate Release Handle Mounts- The handle and two Phillips
screws must be removed to have access to linkage.
To start your tailgate removal, simply loosen all Philips screws
and hex bolts in photo A, B & C on both sides. Remove the four
hex bolts in photo D. Remove the license plate housing and wiring.
Remove the hex bolt on the tailgate, (B). When removing the other
side, support the tailgate so it does not fall. With a hammer,
lightly tap on the pointed end of the pin that holds the tailgate
to the bed bracket (C). The tailgate can be removed.
Place your Tailgate in a secure location next to your new tailgate.
Remove the Phillips screw in the center of the tailgate release
handle, (you may need to pry slightly to remove handle). Remove the
two Philips screws on either side of the handle (E). Once released,
it will fall down on the back side of you tailgate. Now it can be
pulled down to the license plate or access door opening for
removal.
Remove one of the tailgate release steel arms by pulling out on the
bottom clips and pulling up on the steel arm. Note: Only one side
needs to be removed, (Photo F). You will now be able to pull the
steel arm with lock from one side, repeat the same for the other
side, (Photo G).
To reinstall tailgate locks, simply turn your tailgate on one side
and feed the steel arm (still attached to the lock) down inside the
gate until it aligns with the attachment hole (G). Once aligned,
reinstall the two large Phillips screws, loosely. Do the same for
reverse side (B). Replace steel arm into gate release and reinstall
clip (F). Place the tailgate release back into mounting position
and install the two Phillips screws either side of handle pin.
Reinstall handle and tighten all three screws (E).
Place the tailgate into mounting position and reinstall the pointed
gate pins to attach to bed (C). Holding the gate release handle
open, gently close the gate to see what side to side alignment is
needed. To align the gate gaps, place provided spacer washers on
the flat side of the gate pin (C). Please refer to “Bed
Adjustments” for final alignments.
We have made the Tailgate so you do not need to use the clips in
install the top chrome piece. The back side of your new tailgate
has the proper angle to align, drill our holes and reinstall the
factory sheet metal screws. Small adjustments may be made by simply
changing the angle or depth of the attachment points with a sanding
block and 80 grit sandpaper.
Reinstall license plate housing, wiring, or inspection plate and
you’re ready to Hit the Bricks.