Ok it’s Groundhog Day, I realize now why I didn’t do this before.
I built a new tailgate table for my Jeep, I’m removing my old table (TT001) and starting a new version TT002
View attachment 95750
So the new model will utilize the entire panel width without notching for the latch cover, in fact I am cutting the cover back to allow for the channel and panel to clear. I still had an end piece left from the panel I cut for another member that I was going to put in my wife’s JKUHR, that ain’t happenin’ anymore. However, if I do this right I can use it on both.
First step is to cut back the vertical return leg on the left side of the latch and about 1/2” of the top, I stuffed a rag in the tailgate to catch the saw filings and had my shop-vac attached, you don’t want these rusting in the bottom of the tailgate. File down the rough edges and primer them so they won’t rust.
View attachment 95754
I shortened the bell crank to allow the table to shift as far to the right as it can go and drilled a new hole for the linkage rod and attached it.
View attachment 95755View attachment 95756
Now to make a new cover, I’ll start with a SS side piece that will be held in place with the hinge channel.
View attachment 95778View attachment 95776View attachment 95775View attachment 95777
Then I made a cover out of some 20 ga galvanized sheetmetal.
View attachment 95779View attachment 95780View attachment 95781P