Knock Off Tailgate Reinforcement Bolts

[mschlott]

I just went from 35s to 37s on stock rims and I'm still using the stock tire carrier. I'm a little worried about the stress on the tailgate since I wheel this thing.

I've heard good things about the bang for the buck from the Amazon cheapo tailgate reinforcements. Some people have complained about the quality of the bolts.
For those who have installed these...
Did you use the bolts that came with them?
If not, where did you source the appropriate bolts?

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[zsg1313]

I did exactly that. Let me find my order, I got the advise here.

 

[zsg1313]

I can't find my order but this was the thread: https://www.jlwranglerforums.com/fo...opar-hinge-reinforcement-kit-ugh.11638/page-3

 

[mschlott]

I can't find my order but this was the thread: https://www.jlwranglerforums.com/fo...opar-hinge-reinforcement-kit-ugh.11638/page-3

Did you have problems with the torx head bolts or did you just decide to replace them with the hex head preemptively?

 

[zsg1313]

I just did them preemptively. I also needed to order a longer bump stop and had a hell of a time getting one of the torx bolts out.

 

[somedude922]

Does this help? I know I did not special order any bolts for it. But can’t remember if I maybe picked some up somewhere? Knowing my cheap ass, they are the ones supplied. Anyhow, no problems with the cheapo amazon reinforcement kit. I did paint the hex heads black with a touch up pen though.

 

[rocksarntpeople]

So I actually attempted this install. I read a lot of decently positive feedback and even ordered the replacement bolts/washers from BoltDepot and painted them black to match. I didn't even bother to use the ones that came with the Amazon carrier.

My issue was the reinforcement itself. The bolt holes didn't line up great and/or at all and so I ended up returning it.

I would advise sanding the back as mine came with a ton of burrs to file off and actually painting it with real paint that will hold up. Mine came "coated" with something that basically would rub off with your finger, so I stripped and sprayed it with rustoleum black. Unfortunately it didn't fit anyway so back it went.

Hopefully you have a better experience than I did, but I do have the bolts/washers if you want them. I think they cost me $10 but most of that was shipping. If you want I'd give them to you for shipping cost, painted black and all.

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