Bent tailgate - Repair or replace?

[I_Publius]

I busted out my window and bent up the top part of my tailgate when I hit a tree limb backing down a trail the other day. Uggg....

Now there is a huge crease in it and I need to determine whether or not to have a body shop repair it (unless someone can tell me how to do it myself) or replace it.

Suggestions?

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[doghead]

I'd let my insurance pay for a replacement.

 

[I_Publius]

I'd let my insurance pay for a replacement.

I didn't even consider that. Good idea.


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[wheelspinner]

That will probably need to be covered under collision. Do you have that coverage? Deductible? Just replace it. Takes less than a hour and they are pretty easy to find. I picked up a spare complete tailgate in perfect condition with glass for 75 bucks last year.

 

[I_Publius]

That will probably need to be covered under collision. Do you have that coverage? Deductible? Just replace it. Takes less than a hour and they are pretty easy to find. I picked up a spare complete tailgate in perfect condition with glass for 75 bucks last year.

I think I like that idea even better. If I can find one for $75, that is the route I'll take.

I have had too much on the brain lately to even think about the project, so I'm glad to have a forum like this where people can help set my brain straight.


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[cucvrus]

That is a nasty place to do a repair. But it could be done. Is this a show piece? If not fix it so the window works, sand and paint the area and drive on. After you replace the rear glass. Finding one for $75. is a good find. I don't even think I could insure a 30 year old vehicle unless I went with classic insurance. Then with the $500. deductible I would still have to fix it myself. It appears the gate was up when it hit. Good Luck. I hope everything goes well. Fixed or replaced. All works out the same. I have many patina marks on my M1009.

 

[I_Publius]

Will a tailgate from the same year suburban fit the M1009?


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[cucvrus]

No I am sorry to say it will NOT. It can not be made to fit either. I had a 1/2 dozen brand new takeoffs from a RR contract we built and gave them away.

 

[I_Publius]

No I am sorry to say it will NOT. It can not be made to fit either. I had a 1/2 dozen brand new takeoffs from a RR contract we built and gave them away.

I figured it probably would not. Oh well, I'll keep my search going. Thanks!


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[cucvrus]

Are you determined to fix it to perfection? Or just get it operational? If you had a local body man hammered and work that dent out it may be less expensive then a replacement. Just a thought. Good Luck.

 

[richingalveston]

I have a civy tailgate shell if you are interested pm me.