quickie question...tailgate chains.....

[ScottInAZ]

as the title says, tailgate chains... how long are they usually?..... I COULD buy a set already made from DurkaDurkastan, but like my hinges, they may never arrive... I figure a bit of chain, a couple "S" hooks, and Bob's Your Uncle.... I can make the canvas covers myself, I have the material and machines to do it.... but what I need is a rough size and chain gauge.... anyone got info for me?

 

[PeteL]

I'd say, basically 1/4" chain, off the top of my head.

The hooks have a very special specific geometry, matched to either the open or closed position of the tailgate.

 

[Fresbone]

These arrived quickly for me. I know you are asking for the length, but these pics also show the specific hardware at the ends.

https://www.kaiserwillys.com/products/us-made-tailgate-chains-with-cloth-covering-fits-46-71-cj-2a-3a-3b-5-truck/

 

[garage gnome]

Post s WTB thread.

 

[supertrooper]

These arrived quickly for me. I know you are asking for the length, but these pics also show the specific hardware at the ends.

https://www.kaiserwillys.com/products/us-made-tailgate-chains-with-cloth-covering-fits-46-71-cj-2a-3a-3b-5-truck/

I used these. They were the perfect length and correct hooks. Just. Make sore you put them on the correct sides since the hooks have different bends

 

[jeepstar]

i have a complete set. PM me if interested.

 

[cj2atruck]

I'd say, basically 1/4" chain, off the top of my head.

The hooks have a very special specific geometry, matched to either the open or closed position of the tailgate.

Since I removed 3 inches from my tailgate to make it fit the new bed, I had to make my own chains. 1/4” chain will work fine (I purchased from a local farm supply), and the hook can easily be made using an “S” hook. After inserting the chain, close one end, and put a slight twist in the other end with a vice and a crescent wrench. For the covers, I used extra soft shackle covers. To attach to the body bracket, I used small screw type quick connect chain link.

 

[Beach66Bum]

This is when I miss having Carl Walck. He had beautiful tailgate chains, and 4 colors to choose from!

 

[mikvar]

Just measured mine and it’s about 17 1/2 long from connection to end of hook. 1964 CJ5



Yes, that is still the original plastic cover on it, kind of tore up.

 

[Jw60]

I made tailgate cables. My suggestion if you use cables is to have the crimped end on the hook and the u-bolts and saddles on the vehicle side.