Our cable kit for 1973-87 Squarebody trucks replaces the factory metal straps on a Squarebody fleetside tailgate. The straps rust through, stretch and rattle, so cables are the first thing most owners change. The swap is a bolt-on job and there is no drilling. First, watch the video below. Then use the overview under it as a checklist while you work.
Installation video
Watch the install video on YouTube if you want it full screen.
Tools you will need
- Sockets and wrenches for the striker plate and strap bolts
- Grinder or drill for the factory strap rivet
- Blue thread locker
- A second pair of hands to hold the tailgate
1973-87 tailgate cables install overview
The 1973-87 tailgate cables bolt to the factory holes, so the whole swap takes about twenty minutes a side.
- Open the tailgate and support it, then unhook the old strap from the bed side.
- Remove the strap at the tailgate end. If it is riveted, grind the rivet head off and drive the rivet out.
- Fit the new cable at the tailgate with the supplied hardware and blue thread locker.
- Attach the bed-side end to the factory pin or bolt, and check that the cable lies flat against the bedside.
- Repeat on the other side, then close the gate and open it again slowly.
- Finally, check the gate sits level. Both cables should go tight at the same time when the tailgate is open.
Since the gate is already open, check the trunnions and latches at the same time. Our 1973-87 trunnion kit guide, the Squarebody latch kit guide and the 1981-87 tailgate saver guide cover the rest of the rebuild.
Cables are usually the first thing replaced on a Squarebody tailgate. Trunnion kits and the Gate Saver strut are in the 73-87 Squarebody truck parts collection.
For any questions or concerns with your install, don’t hesitate to email us at info@lsfab.com
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