Lift gate support question

[Bronk74]

I removed the the lift gate for paint 10 years ago installing it back currently. The support arm mount to the side of the metal top. Currently there is just holes there is no threaded nuts or anything on the inside. Top is currently installed how do I or what do I install for the hardware. To mount too.

 

[serial car restorer]

Sounds like you don't have the rear support posts (aka 'stakes') in place. The threads for those holes are on the stakes.

Hard top (long roof) support post, used. right Bronco.

Hard top (long roof) support post, used. right. 1966 1967 1968 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 early ford bronco passenger side

www.northeastclassicfordparts.com

 

[guilty1]

Just worked on same thing. Opted to not use the stakes and inserted 4 rivnuts in the holes.. Holes were perfect size for the 5/16" rivnut.

 

[serial car restorer]

Pro tip - the stakes can be inserted with the top in place, by inserting them through the tail light openings...

 

[Bronk74]

Pro tip - the stakes can be inserted with the top in place, by inserting them through the tail light openings...

Are you 100% sure?

 

[serial car restorer]

Pro tip - the stakes can be inserted with the top in place, by inserting them through the tail light openings...

Are you 100% sure?

Yup. Did it just last week after the new paint job.

You may want to loosen the top-to-bed-side bolts a little to give some play as you wiggle them into place, but it definitely can be done, and is much easier than trying to lift the top on with the stakes already either in the top corners or the stake holes in the bed.

 

[Bronk74]

Yup. Did it just last week after the new paint job.

You may want to loosen the top-to-bed-side bolts a little to give some play as you wiggle them into place, but it definitely can be done, and is much easier than trying to lift the top on with the stakes already either in the top corners or the stake holes in the bed.

The last thing I want to do is remove the top again thats for sure! Thanks