Thread: Project Special K

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Still here just moving at a snail's pace, it seems the house and yard get more of my time these days! I've been working on trying to figure out how the original latches and chain were setup on my truck. I never have seen a stock 48 with the stock tail gate latches installed. So after 2 1/2 years I found this photo on the web which explains why the latch mechanism MAC truck parts sent didn't make sense! My bed had two seat belt clasps welded to the gate that literally buckled it closed. A bit crude and unsitely, I'm not sure if I'll go with after market latches Bebops sell (costly at 180..!) or the stock ones at 19 bucks a side. Here are photos of stock and one sort of similar to Bebops. Or I could just weld it shut, but that would make getting a the bed mounted gas filler more difficult!

Still either of these are much cleaner than what was on there!

This is what I used on my tailgate. Their link - http://www.pros-pick.com/hiddenlatchkits.html


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Originally Posted by stovens

Still here just moving at a snail's pace, it seems the house and yard get more of my time these days! I've been working on trying to figure out how the original latches and chain were setup on my truck. I never have seen a stock 48 with the stock tail gate latches installed. So after 2 1/2 years I found this photo on the web which explains why the latch mechanism MAC truck parts sent didn't make sense! My bed had two seat belt clasps welded to the gate that literally buckled it closed. A bit crude and unsitely, I'm not sure if I'll go with after market latches Bebops sell (costly at 180..!) or the stock ones at 19 bucks a side. Here are photos of stock and one sort of similar to Bebops. Or I could just weld it shut, but that would make getting a the bed mounted gas filler more difficult!

I like the second one it gives the gate a clean look. If you go with the chain it could scratch your paint over time. Just my thoughts.

Richard

Thanks guys I'm kinda swaying towards the expensive route too.

Mike B. - That is the same latch system Bebops sells for about the same price. I think you can get them with a cable setup instead of a chain or use the hinge bar setup like in the photo. Thanks for the photo, I was having a hard time finding a easy link photo! I like this type of latch better, as I think it helps pull the sides of the bed to the tail gate for a better fit(mine is a little bowed out).
I'm pretty sure I'll go with the same setup!

Richard - I know what you mean about a cleaner look! I also worry about the chains, and think I'll purchase the metal bar hinge setup or the coated stainless cables over using the chain if I can find the right ones for my application. The 48 and 49 Ford f1's were a special year setup for all kinds of stuff that changed in the early 50's. the beds are different as are the stake supports on the bed. The inside uses a completely different wood kit, etc.. Just makes it more unique and fun when trying to figure out where to go with it!