Tailgate hinge slop

[willtel]

The Energy hinges fit perfectly, don't bend, don't wear, and don't need adjustment. They just work. And they're not priced ridiculously.
http://www.energysuspensionparts.com/products/ford_bronco_4wd_1973

That hasn't been the case for mine.

My tailgate was aligned very well when I put it together and now the drivers side bushing has been squashed flat on the top.

IMG_1764 by willtel, on Flickr

IMG_1765 by willtel, on Flickr

IMG_1771 by willtel, on Flickr

 

[Steve83]

Interesting. Do you routinely put heavy loads on the open t/g? Did you apply the silicone grease during installation? Is the other side wearing the same way? Have you contacted Energy about it? They might offer to replace the bushings. Let us know.

 

[jmangi62]

Read this & the NEXT few captions:


(phone app link)

I have the energy ones, no complaints.

 

[willtel]

Interesting. Do you routinely put heavy loads on the open t/g? Did you apply the silicone grease during installation? Is the other side wearing the same way? Have you contacted Energy about it? They might offer to replace the bushings. Let us know.

The tailgate is almost never open and I think I've been the heaviest thing on it since I put it back together (215lbs on a good day). I honestly don't remember greasing them. The passenger side seems ok. I don't think I realized Energy Suspension made these things until you posted it. I'll contact them and see if I can get some new bushings to true it up.

I can't say I'm looking forward to removing and hanging the tailgate again. It is nerve wracking doing it without damaging the paint.

 

[willtel]

I spoke to Energy Suspension. They are going to send me new bushings for $15 shipped. I'll be sure to grease them. Thanks for pointing out that they make these things.