To those that have ordered the hinge and Carrier kits! I don't have formal instructions yet. Don't worry i hear you laughing at me as I hit the post button(you know who you are). Install video is in the works.
Key points
Look at your tailgate alignment before removing your factory hinge. The ones I have looked at are not aligned perfectly from the factory. This is fine, just take notice. There is adjustment on the striker and the hinges if your not happy with your currant alignment.
Remove the top hinge.
Install the new hinge with JUST the outer countersink and countersunk tailgate hinge bolts. Do not open, the hinges swing on a different axis. USE BLUE LOCTITE ON ALL FASTENERS.
Remove the lower hinge.
Install new lower hinge in the same manner. Make sure the #4 Phillips are reasonably tight.
Now you can open the hinge to install the inside hidden Hex Head bolt and washer. Shut tailgate.
Install Hex Head tailgate bolts in the top hinge where the oe spare tire carrier attached
Hang the carrier base plate and install the vertical longer hex head bolts in the top hinge leaf.
Install bolts on the lower hinge sandwiching the carrier base and hinge leave to the tailgate.
Open and Shut Making whatever adjustments needed.
Remove the OE rubber bumper on the lower valance under the tailgate and install the black plastic space with button head.
Pick a location on the Wheel Plate. Centered to vehicle(holes to the DS) or offset to the passenger side( holes to the PS). Once you have determined the location use RED LOCTITE on these bolts AFTER POWDER or PAINT ON Reassembly.
Do Not Use an Impact on the bolts or you may strip the threads. These studs are 1/2 20 which is stock wheel stud thread and pitch. Feel free to weld them if you like. No Need to over torque the wheel on final assembly. You're not driving on it, it is just holding the wheel to the wheel plate.
There is adjustment in the wheel plate. Mount wheel and tire with the tire barely touching the lower rubber bumper. Measure the distance on the adjustment plate from the carrier base . open and adjust 1/8' In for SLIGHT PRELOAD. This does not need to be much just enough to prevent the tire from vibrating while driving. I find it natural to use one hand on the tire and one hand on the tailgate when shutting. The plastic spacer can be trimmed if needed. Hack saw blade and a vise work well. If there is not enough adjustment with your wheel combo you may need to add additional spacers to create contact and preload. This length worked with a variety of wheels and tires I tried but I can not foresee all combos.
Any issues or questions feel free to pm me.
Thanks!
