Tailgate Cable Installation for 1967-⁠1972 Ford Trucks

Our tailgate cables for 1967-⁠72 Ford trucks replace the factory metal straps on an F100, F250 or F350 tailgate. The straps rust, flake and rattle, so cables are usually the first thing owners change. The swap is a bolt-on job with no drilling, and the kit comes with all the mounting hardware. First, watch the video below. Then use the overview under it as a checklist while you work.

Installation video

The video shows the install on a 1967-⁠72 Chevy C10. The process on a 1967-⁠72 Ford is the same: the cables mount the same way at the tailgate and the bedside. Watch the install video on YouTube if you want to see it full screen.

Tools you will need

• Sockets and wrenches for the strap and cable hardware
• A small file, in case the slotted end needs opening up a touch
• A second pair of hands to hold the tailgate

1967-⁠72 Ford tailgate cables install overview

The cables are a direct replacement for the factory straps, so the whole swap takes about five minutes a side.

1. Open the tailgate and support it, then unhook the old strap from the bed side.
2. Remove the strap at the tailgate end and keep the gate supported.
3. Test-fit the new cable. Slot widths vary a little from gate to gate, so if the slotted end does not drop straight on, open it up slightly with a file.
4. Fit the new cable at the tailgate with the supplied hardware.
5. Attach the bed-side end and check that the cable sits flat against the bedside.
6. Repeat on the other side, then close the gate and open it again slowly.
7. Finally, check the gate sits level. Both cables should go tight at the same time when the tailgate is open.