Loose / Sliding Tailgate - Lower Pivot Point Repair

[aris_garage_builds]

Hi all, my tailgate currently has a lot of movement (very similar to the YouTube video I’ve linked below for reference). I assume it has something to do with the lower pivot point on the passenger side of the tailgate. I notice the drivers side is a closed loop, but the passenger side has an opening which is allowing the hinge to slide in and out - not sure if this design is intentional. Does anyone have recommendations on the best way to repair this so it’s more stable? Should I look for a replacement peice / fabricate a new one? Thanks!

 

 

[89 MJ]

That is open by design. It allows the tailgate to be removable that way. I've heard of people putting a hose clamp around it to prevent it from moving (mainly to prevent theft). 

[Pete M]

wasn't someone printing little inserts to quiet the gates?

[pizzaman09]

1 hour ago, Pete M said:

wasn't someone printing little inserts to quiet the gates?

If you are talking about the triangular rubber pieces that rivet to the bed and the tailgate, those are now available to purchase new.  Key parts makes them.

 

https://www.jegs.com/i/Key-Parts/576/0482-421/10002/-1?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=19684926646&gclid=Cj0KCQjwhafEBhCcARIsAEGZEKKgUUoIb_2alxMDVHwceRt3JpFaSaBMd4f8xHr8iGlGpP95sohhZ80aAqiTEALw_wcB

 

I put a set in my truck.  I highly recommend either a heavy duty rivet setter for the steel 3/16" pop rivits they provide or save yourself the hassle and use 3/16" aluminum pop rivits.  I broke three pop rivits tools on those darn steel ones.

[aris_garage_builds]

This is great to know, thanks all! I'll definitely pick of the Key Parts bumper kit. As far as tightening down the pivot point, I'm going to order this security lock. It should tighten things up and as an added bonus lock down the tailgate. Looks like the size is adjustable so I'm hopeful it will fit - I'll report back on how it goes in case anyone else is interested.

[Pete M]

not those, I swear I remember someone created a thin piece of plastic that tightened up the pivot cup.  or maybe I'm imagining it. 

[AZJeff]

1 hour ago, Pete M said:

not those, I swear I remember someone created a thin piece of plastic that tightened up the pivot cup.  or maybe I'm imagining it. 

A large piece of heat shrink tubing can be put over the body side of the tailgate hinge to make it a bit quieter.  It helps “somewhat”🥴 on mine.

 

I also have a hose clamp on the passenger’s side as a theft deterrent device that also helps a small amount with the hinge slop.

 

overall, the MJ tailgate hinge is pretty hokey in the amount of clearance that is present even without wear on the surfaces.🤣

[AnotherOldJeepGuy]

3 hours ago, aris_garage_builds said:

This is great to know, thanks all! I'll definitely pick of the Key Parts bumper kit. As far as tightening down the pivot point, I'm going to order this security lock. It should tighten things up and as an added bonus lock down the tailgate. Looks like the size is adjustable so I'm hopeful it will fit - I'll report back on how it goes in case anyone else is interested.

Please do post back with pics!