MikeR,
Thanks for the words of enthusiasm! It is pretty when shined up. Unfortunately the previous owner wasn't that careful and it has a few blemishes, but I'm working on them. The worst ones were on the tailgate. Yes, I realize I won't find one that color, unless I'm extremely lucky. So re-painting is expected.
I may have found a white one off a dually, and I'm trying to get a price/availablity committment from a county road crew in Oregon that just put on a hydraulic lift gate on a 3/4 ton. These things are very, very difficult to come by. But you'd think with so many pulling 5-ers or putting on flatbeds, someone would have one they don't need.
I've already tried the utility bed conversion places. When they have them, the only sell the bed/gate as a set. They often sell them to the body shops, but none around here seem to have any.
Dieselmann,
I sent you a private message, since you said you were looking for a bed. I found a new bed/gate combination at a wrecking yard, but again, sold only as a set. I think I'm farther away then you want to travel, though.
Keep nosing around, guys. Any 1/2 ton, 3/4 ton, or dually, '94 and up will work, so I'v heard. The duallys may have the lightbar is the only difference. I'll let you know if I score one of the 2 I've located.
Thanks,
Jay