tailgate rattle on small bumps
 

For some time now I have been hearing a rattling noise coming from what I thought was my rear suspension when ever I went over small bumps, cracks in the road or railroad tracks. It's sounded like something was loose or a bad bushing in a shock or spring. After much investigation and driving around with my window open listening I noticed in my side mirror that my box and tailgate were moving alot. (I know I know it's not my box, the cab is rubber mounted ) but the tailgate is what got my attention. So I grabbed the bottom of my tailgate and lifted slightly and dropped it. "CLUNK"!!

My question is this. Am I the only one with a loose tailgate? Is this common or if not what's the fix?

Easy fix.. Get yourself some tirx bits that go on a ratchet. Loosen the top bolts on each side just enough to move them back 1/8 inch increments any try it. They are on a nut plate that moves and won't fall off..

Hey xtream,

Have you had the chance to contact your dealership about this? Please PM the year and mileage of your rig; I'll see how I can help with your truck's tailgate.

Chad

It's not the mounts it is between the female and male parts of the hinge at the bottom. No bolts are actually loose or have moved I don't belive. Possibly a bushing is my guess.