Replacing tailgate

[frank1]

I would like to replace the tailgate on one of my 03's. The bottom portion has completely rusted through and I have a huge dent on the right side (backed into something while plowing this past winter?). I've look on-line, found a few web sites that offer complete tailgates w/ all hardware and painted to match your paint color and delivered for about five hundred dollars. Just don't know if the metal is anywhere as thick as OEM (probably not). Just wondering what you guys think.
Thanks Frank

 

[jgillott]

Years ago, I purchased several generic body parts for my former '85 Chevy that I used as a plow truck. They were cheap and got me through inspection, but didn't last long at all, especially spreading salt. It has been some time since I purchased a generic, so the quality may have increased however. How does a rust free used OEM gate compare in price?

 

[frank1]

Checked many junk yards in my area, most of them are in a lot worse shape then mine! Cost anywhere from $185.00 - $250.00.Plus auto-body work and paint, maybe another $175.- $200.00? Two of the yards said they could get me after market gates w/o hardware and primed for around $185.00, (I also saw the same price on-line). I told them, I'll just keep looking.

 

[PWong]

I got a replacement tailgate without hardware from JC Whity for around $150. It was made in Taiwan. Had it printed for $250. It came out good. So $500 is about right if it come with all the hardware and painted to match. I intend to replace it before this winter.