Cables for tailgate ?

[GMtrucknut!!]

Has anyone ever used cables instead of links when removing their chains after installing hidden latches? If so what cables did they use?

[SCHRUMGMC]

What did the 1959 GMC 100 Original Tail Gate look like ?

[GMtrucknut!!]

if it was a stepside other than lettering it should be the same as a chevy.

[mr48chev]

I think some guys have used 78/84 ElCamino tailgate cables but have no idea how they hooked them up.

[Atommik]

I used cables that were from a ford pick up (I think) 1990 or so...but, I made my own bedsides and tailgate so I'm not sure if my set up will be any help to you!!

[GMtrucknut!!]

I am thinking about using some. But tomorrow I need to get out in the shop and determine which length will work best. I think I will probably weld a nut on the gate then use a bolt to attach that end and then countersink a nut in the bed for the other side, the cables are available in many lengths.

[GMtrucknut!!]

Can you post a picture of your setup?

[OrrieG]

Look at my thread starting at post 604
Ford cables from NAPA, extra "bolt" from Ford dealer and some fab to get them to work. The hidden hinges are designed for stepsides, on Fleets you need to make a spacer for the hole side.

[Atommik]

Here's a couple pics...

[OrrieG]

I wasn't at a computer that had my photos on it. Here are my photos. The upper is shimmed out about 5/8"so it is flush with the bed back. I also used a heavier grommet than the one supplied in the hidden latch kit.

[GMtrucknut!!]

Thanks for pictures and the feedback after looking at how others have done it I now definitely have a plan. I have decided to use 2000-2006 Toyota tundra tailgate cables as they are short 11 3/8 inches between bolt holes, and the tailgate is only 1/2 inch taller . I believe that with the short length they will be easier to conceal in the limited space available on my shortbed. Now before everyone trashes me and asks why I am putting Toyota parts on my classic chevy be easy on me as these trucks are built right here in Indiana!! Plus along with my 55 and my 71 gmc I do own one of these two !

[G&R's57GMC]

Then there the fancy hidden tailgate link kit is for the removal of chains on original tailgates. Tailgate and bedsides will need to modified for installation. Detailed instructions included. Made in the USA. Can be used with “Stealth” Latch Kit. The mod to the tailgate would look like the pic above, the mod to the bed would be removing the the hook piece and filling the slot.

This from Brother's

[GMtrucknut!!]

I have looked into those and I just cant see 125 dollars worth of expense. Plus I like the looks of cables and cables usually don't require much as far as maintenance to keep them looking nice .

[G&R's57GMC]

Yep those are the fancy (spendy) way to do it. They come zink plated, chrome or stainless.

The mods are about the same with the cables for a clean look.

[OrrieG]

My cables were $17 at Orielly, extra connector $6 at Ford dealer. Couple of dollars is misc metal. Fancy chrome socket head screws are couple of bucks each. I have about 8 hours is figuring, cutting, welding, grinding, sanding and paint.

[Dan in Pasadena]

Ha ha, and very nicely done too. But 8 hours of work has GOT to be worth more than $125.
...Unless you're one (of us) crazy fools who ENJOYS spending 8 hours on a 55-60 year old truck!
Posted via Mobile Device

[OrrieG]

Originally Posted by Dan in Pasadena

Ha ha, and very nicely done too. But 8 hours of work has GOT to be worth more than $125.
...Unless you're one (of us) crazy fools who ENJOYS spending 8 hours on a 55-60 year old truck!
Posted via Mobile Device

I have a Valvoline poster in my garage that shows a pair of legs under a 70 Chevelle. It says "some people have a shrink, I have my garage". I did the 60-70 hour work weeks as a younger man and all I got was sick so the extra money went for hospitals and doctors.

[_Ogre]

Originally Posted by Dan in Pasadena

Ha ha, and very nicely done too. But 8 hours of work has GOT to be worth more than $125.
...Unless you're one (of us) crazy fools who ENJOYS spending 8 hours on a 55-60 year old truck!
Posted via Mobile Device

do the math dan, i figure my labor at $1/hr any more than that, i'd have a million dollars in my truck

[GMtrucknut!!]

Good point but after working with the public all day an hour spent in the shop wrenching and fabricating parts for my truck beats spending a visit with a therapist to keep from strangling someone!! LOL