Tailgate Saver Installation for 1973-⁠1980 Trucks

The strut kit for the 1973-⁠80 trucks is a gas strut that lets an early Squarebody tailgate down slowly instead of dropping it. It mounts with a ball stud at the tailgate and a bracket on the bed side, so nothing is welded. First, watch the video below, because it shows where the bracket sits on the 1973-⁠1980 trucks. Then use the notes under it as a checklist while you work. The 1981-⁠1987 gates mount differently, so use the 1981-⁠87 tailgate saver guide for those.

Installation video

Watch the install video on YouTube if you want it full screen.

Tools you will need

• Drill with a 5/16″ bit
• Sockets and wrenches for the taillight and the trunnion bolt
• Blue thread locker
• Tape measure, marker and a grinder for the strap rivet

1973-⁠80 tailgate saver install overview

The 1973-⁠80 tailgate saver mounts on a ball stud at the gate and a bracket on the bed side.

1. Fit the ball stud at the tailgate. It replaces the driver side trunnion bolt, so apply thread locker before you tighten it.
2. Remove the taillight so you can reach the inside of the bed panel.
3. Mount the support bracket. Mark and drill the bed-side hole where the video shows it, then bolt the stainless bracket on with the supplied ball stud, washer and jam nut.
4. Drill the second bracket hole using the bracket as a guide, and fit the button head bolt.
5. Reinstall the taillight and clear the driver side strap if your gate has one, because the strut needs that space.
6. Finally, attach the gate saver with the shaft pointing down and cycle the tailgate slowly to check every clearance.