Reinstallation of tailgate help!

[imported_Big Red]

So far I have taken the old tailgate off. I was wondering what is the easiest way to get those darn spring bars back in. Please help!

[Ralph]

I truly believe this is one thing that wasn't designed to be removed, once originally installed at the factory. Truly a pain, but if you push and pry you can get it. The main thing is to manipulate the tailgate in order to keep tension off of those spring-rods.

[andy d]

hmmn, i replaced a hinge a couple of years ago and had no real trouble with the torsion spring. i would support the gate in a nearly closed position as will allow you to still be able to work on the hinges.the spring has the least tension on it when it is closed. put the spring into the slot for the gate. then put the spring under the hinge and tighten it up. if you cant hold the hinge close enough to the sill to start the screws, use a punch as an alignment tool/lever in one of the screw holes. then start the other screws. praps using a longer screw to pull the hinge down would be a good idea. start all the screws before finally tightening them.