How to attach tailgate band

[cgrossl]

I am in the process of getting my 85 painted. While I was at it, I figured that I would add the aluminum tailgate band that came with Silverados. I found and bought a pretty good one, but I don't know how it mounts. How does this thing attach to the tailgate?

[78SilveradoSWB]

There should be an aluminium mounting bracket behind the tailgate trim band. On that bracket are 4 speed nuts. On the tailgate, there should be 4 holes that align with the holes on the bracket. The tailband is mounted by 4 sheet metal screws from the inside side of the tailgate, through the holes and into the mounting bracket and held by the 4 speed nuts.

[cgrossl]

The mounting bracket is there, but since my tailgate didn't originally have a tailgate band, the holes for the bolts aren't there. I don't suppose that there are some dimples or something that mark the hole locations is there? Otherwise, I am going to have to measure and drill.

[72 CustomCamper]

We did this install on my dad's 84. Had to measure and drill. One trick that might help is to use model clay. Put the clay on the band at the holes for the speed nuts and press the band onto the tail gate. The clay should stay on the gate or atleast leave a mark you can use to drill through...


Chuck