Best way to cut a Tailgate in a CDN M101?

[Scubajeep]

So I'm trying to decide on whats the best way to cut a tailgate on my CDN M101 (1/4 ton). Should I follow the sides and reinforce or should I just cut straight up and down about 1 inch from each side?

Who has cut theirs and what would you do different?

Thanks
Todd Hubbell

 

[Roberto]

Dont know if you have seen this on the forum but maybe it will help, this is what I plan on doing!

 

[Exiled]

I haven't played enough with an M101, but on an M416, you need to reinforce the cut edges on both the tub and the tailgate, or you'll get too much flex. I used 1x1" square tubing, capped on the ends.

 

[Grouseman]

I'm thinking you may want to cut it out so that it swings out so you can put a mobile kitchen on the door. That is what I'm going to do.


SS

 

[Scubajeep]

I like the cut in the second photo.... (cad drawing). Do I need to reinforce the sides? and How????

Does anyone know what type of hindge to use???

Thanks
Todd

 

[lowenbrau]

The M101cdn is a bit more stout than the 416 and stands up to a tailgate better I think. Here are some shots I took of one that belongs to Ratpuke's dad. It just has a piece of 1" square tube added, mostly for a tailgate stop. He keeps hounding me to cut mine. He says his has become a lot more useful since he did it.

 

[lowenbrau]

There's a lot of info at the yahoogroup M101CDN.

Here is an alternate way to cut it, leaving the strong corner piece

 

[Grouseman]

There's a lot of info at the yahoogroup M101CDN.

Here is an alternate way to cut it, leaving the strong corner piece

L,

Thanks for the pics. I did check that site also. Most people have the gates fold down.

SS

 

[VTFJ40]

Here is an alternate way to cut it, leaving the strong corner piece

This seems like a smart idea.