Tailgate Trunnion Installation for 1967-⁠1972 Trucks

The Silent Gate trunnion is the stainless and Delrin replacement for the worn factory trunnions. The Original Silent Gate set for 1967-⁠72 trucks replaces the worn factory trunnions on a 1967-⁠1972 Chevy or GMC fleetside tailgate. It is a six-piece set of stainless steel pins and Delrin bearings, so the gate swings quietly and stops binding. Most of the work is preparation. First, clean the flange pockets. Then fit the bearings flush, and the rest is a bolt-on job.

Tools you will need

• Sockets and wrenches for the factory trunnion bolts
• A hammer for light adjustments to the flange
• A grinder or sandpaper, in case a bearing needs to sit deeper
• Anti-seize grease and a second pair of hands

Silent Gate trunnion install steps

1. First, remove the old trunnion bracket from each side of your tailgate.
2. Clean the flange pockets. Before installing the new stainless steel trunnions, inspect the tailgate’s female flange pockets and clean out all debris, paint buildup, dirt, and heavy rust.
3. Size up the fit. Make any adjustments needed so the trunnions fit properly. When installing the female Delrin bearing on each side, line up the flat edges front to back. You may need to tap the flange on the inside of the tailgate slightly open or closed to achieve a perfect fit.
4. Check the Delrin bearing fit. It should sit flush with the edge of the tailgate or just below flush. If it’s too tight, remove it and sand the backside (no bevel) with a grinder or sandpaper, then sand the edges to improve the fit as needed. Flat edges on each side prevent spinning.
5. Seat the beveled Delrin piece. Depending on your tailgate, the beveled Delrin piece can be installed inside the cup pocket or as shown — make sure it’s flush or just below flush with the tailgate edges.
6. Finally, install the trunnion hinge assembly. Reattach the tailgate using your original hardware or upgrade to stainless steel, using anti-seize grease when reassembling stainless items. Have someone help hold the tailgate in place while you get the bolts started, and don’t fully tighten until you’ve confirmed a perfect fit.

Note: every tailgate has a unique history and may need additional attention or alterations to achieve a perfect fit.

Silent Gate trunnion installation video

Watch the install video on YouTube if you want it full screen. The same Silent Gate trunnion design fits the later trucks as well, and the 1973-⁠87 trunnion guide covers those kits.

View Installation Instructions

The Original Silent Gate is one part of a tailgate rebuild — cables, billet letters and latch kits for the same trucks are in our 67-⁠72 C10 truck parts collection.