If your GMT800 tailgate is drooping, rattling, or the latches aren’t catching right, this video walks through a full rebuild — cables, hinges, and both latches.
Nothing worse than wanting to use a GMT800 for truck stuff but fighting with a tailgate that won’t stay shut!
You can watch the full video here:
The hardest part of the job is removing the rods from the latches. The rods have to be pried out of the tailgate latches by means of a screwdriver, or needle nose pliers. I found it easiest to pry the rods out from the handle side using the clips on the tailgate handle. Once the rods are disconnected from the handle side, you can pull the tailgate latches cleanly out.
New parts from Dorman worked good - but not so great when it comes to tailgate side.
Tailgate side doesn’t fit well at all. Very poor Dorman fitment there! I ended up going with junkyard OEM parts, as my passenger side tailgate mount was cracked.
If you are in a bind, you could drill new holes in the Dorman part. I have also heard of guys “sending it” with the impact to get it to mount and work as well. Totally up to you on which route you want to go with.
All in all, its a fairly straightforward rebuild. Time will tell how long the aftermarket Dorman parts will last - but for now I am happy that my tailgate closes again!!
Parts used (all Dorman, direct fit for GMT800 1999–2006):
- Tailgate Cables (qty 2) – Dorman 38536
½ → Amazon.com: Dorman 38536 Tailgate Cable - 15-1/8 In. Compatible with Select Models : Automotive - Tailgate Hinges – Dorman 38642 ½ → Amazon.com
- Driver Side Latch – Dorman 38666 ½ → Amazon.com
- Passenger Side Latch – Dorman 38667 ½ → Amazon.com
- Magnetic Nut Driver – SHALL → Amazon.com
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Feel free to ask if you run into anything during the job.