Using Perko Hold down clamp for tailgate latch

[Handfull 54]

Has anyone used a Perko Hold Down Clamp Cat.#113DPOCHR for latching a 47-54 tailgate? I have an already painted truck and I would like to know where you located it on the bed and tailgate. If you go to www.boatersplus.com you can see a picture of what I'm talking about. Thanks

[Dan in Pasadena]

I've seen them used and placed about 3" below the top of the tailgate. Doesn't seem like there'd be much to figure out.

I love the look but $63 EACH?! I mgiht use them someday but man that's pricey.

[mknittle]

Originally Posted by dan in pasadena

i've seen them used and placed about 3" below the top of the tailgate. Doesn't seem like there'd be much to figure out.

I love the look but $63 each?! I mgiht use them someday but man that's pricey.

x2

[oldcouple]

these are free at the wrecking yard and you can with a little imagination figure out how to bolt them in, mine are welded, been on there for 15 years.

[Dan in Pasadena]

Where are the straps when the gate is closed?
Posted via Mobile Device

[oldcouple]

Under the seat. Or in what is left of the glove box after the AC was installed.

[_Ogre]

oldcouple: unique and effective.
i've seen you post a pic of those before,
didn't know you had a belt to couple in there
very slick and a lot cheaper than $63 each

[solidaxel]

I have a pair of them on my 55 GMC and they work great, until I built the 53 and it has a Mar-K tail gate.

There are other companys that sell these same hold down clamps keep looking.

I think I found my clamps in a Canada East coast boat supply on line and I dont think I paid 20.00 each for them.

I can't beleive the price has gone up that much in 6 years, keep looking,
there are other people selling the same but maybe a different brand

[solidaxel]

I just looked at West Marine and guess what, they are even more expensive !!!

[mobileortho]

$39.95 here & 27.99 here But even if you use these clamps, what are you going to use to hold the tailgate up when its open?

[mr48chev]

Like this? http://www.marinepartdepot.com/new316ststlo1.html

[Handfull 54]

Thank you all for your thoughts. I really do't plan to open the tailgate other than to put gas in the truck. I want to keep it as simple as possible. I bought the latches a long time ago and i think I paid $45 each. I just liked the look. My main concern was not having the screws poke out through the bed sides or the tailgate. It looks like I will have enought dead space near the top of the tailgate and on the bed sides in that space where the tail light bracket attaches to. I will post a picture when I'm through. Again thank you all. Everyone have a great safe summer.

[mobileortho]

Originally Posted by mr48chev

Like this? http://www.marinepartdepot.com/new316ststlo1.html

$14.99?? For that price I may have to try those myself!

[mr48chev]

They are good to deal with, I buy most of the stainless pieces I need for my sailboat from them.

[youngrodder]

The saying "less is more" applies here...I vote for the Perko latches. They are small and have a nice clean look to them.

Good thinking.

Marc

[mobileortho]

I went ahead and ordered a set. Shipping wa free too!!

[Dan in Pasadena]

....wait....WAIT....don't tell me, I know this one....$15 versus $63....I've almost got it.

Yes, the $15 stainless steel one is the winner. Yes, I'm certain of it.

[Handfull 54]

Here is a picture of my Perko hold down clamp installed. I just drilled a bunch of holes and on they went. None of the screws came through which was my main concern. The only thing I regret is not getting the locking ones. I have seen these used just like I am doing but I wonder if somehow the latch could go past center. I'll take it out on Saturday and see what happens.

[Hogsophist]

Originally Posted by Handfull 54

Here is a picture of my Perko hold down clamp installed. I just drilled a bunch of holes and on they went. None of the screws came through which was my main concern. The only thing I regret is not getting the locking ones. I have seen these used just like I am doing but I wonder if somehow the latch could go past center. I'll take it out on Saturday and see what happens.

Looks sweet. What are you going to do for gate support when down?
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[Handfull 54]

Thanks for the compliment. I am only going to open the tail gate to put gas in it. I am trying to keep it as simple as possible. If it becomes a hassel, I have seen some stainless brackets that hold the tailgate when down then just fold up when you close it. I'm sure someone will have used one and can let the rest of us know. I like how young rodder thinks and he has the truck to prove he is after quality. Rolex and Timex they both tell time.

[Hogsophist]

Originally Posted by Handfull 54

Thanks for the compliment. I am only going to open the tail gate to put gas in it. I am trying to keep it as simple as possible. If it becomes a hassel, I have seen some stainless brackets that hold the tailgate when down then just fold up when you close it. I'm sure someone will have used one and can let the rest of us know. I like how young rodder thinks and he has the truck to prove he is after quality. Rolex and Timex they both tell time.

Simple is good. I'm new but know it when I see it. I'm sold on the latches. Just looking for a small compact retracting cable mount just to keep it off the bumper, once on, and not really as weight support.
Posted via Mobile Device

[Hogsophist]

any issues with them coming open?

[Hogsophist]

Originally Posted by Handfull 54

Thanks for the compliment. I am only going to open the tail gate to put gas in it. I am trying to keep it as simple as possible. If it becomes a hassel, I have seen some stainless brackets that hold the tailgate when down then just fold up when you close it. I'm sure someone will have used one and can let the rest of us know. I like how young rodder thinks and he has the truck to prove he is after quality. Rolex and Timex they both tell time.

would you mind a pic of the bracket when you can?

thank you

[Handfull 54]

I have looked over my installation and I am going to space out the latch part about an eighth inch from the side panel. That will line up the hook part perfectly and I will be able to use a small pin in the hole that is already on the latch. That will definitely prevent the latch from opening accidently. If your going to use this latch or another like it just make sure the two pieces like up properly. Perko also makes a lockable latch although I have not seen it. I am happy with this setup as it is small and looks good.

[OrrieG]

I looked at using that type of latch but would have still needed to put in a cable or strap to hold the gate horizontally or keep it from resting on the bumper when open. I went with a hidden slide and modified cable. Something to consider.