Dennis Carpenter Tailgate Quality

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MAK
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Dennis Carpenter Tailgate Quality

Post by MAK »

Looking for input from anyone with firsthand experience with the original tooling tailgate from Dennis Carpenter.
I’ve started work on several original tailgates that I have, but I just don’t think I’m going to be able to bring them back to the condition that I want. Best one I have has a bow that I just don’t think I will be able to get out...
Anyway, I guess I’m just going to bite the bullet and get another. Chances of me finding an original in fantastic condition is not likely... That leaves the Dennis Carpenter option. So, is it nice, straight, and original quality? is the sheet metal as heavy as original so I don’t have to worry about bends from weight on it once in place and in lowered position? Are the mounting holes aligned so everything fits?
Thanks for your help.
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jimmy828
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Re: Dennis Carpenter Tailgate Quality

Post by jimmy828 »

I purchased one from DC (Ford tooling) and was very satisfied. It seems to be top quality and probably the best you can get without going NOS. DC has 2 options, the Ford tooling or china
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MAK
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Re: Dennis Carpenter Tailgate Quality

Post by MAK »

That looks great! :thup: Same color I plan to go back to on mine too.
Do you know if it seemed to be the same gauge sheet metal as the original or is it a little lighter?
I definitely know I don’t want the Chinese repro.
Thanks
jimmy828 wrote:I purchased one from DC (Ford tooling) and was very satisfied. It seems to be top quality and probably the best you can get without going NOS. DC has 2 options, the Ford tooling or china
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Re: Dennis Carpenter Tailgate Quality

Post by jimmy828 »

Don't know the thickness of metal but i don't think DC skimmed on it.
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Re: Dennis Carpenter Tailgate Quality

Post by MAK »

Thank you :thup:
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Re: Dennis Carpenter Tailgate Quality

Post by dave1972 »

Fit and quality were excellent on mine. Unless you're a professional, can't tell a difference.
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MAK
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Re: Dennis Carpenter Tailgate Quality

Post by MAK »

dave1972 wrote:Fit and quality were excellent on mine. Unless you're a professional, can't tell a difference.
I’m no pro but I’m going for as close to professional look as I can get... :D
Thanks much for the input. Sounds like that’s the route I need to take unless a good original shows up before I get that far.
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Re: Dennis Carpenter Tailgate Quality

Post by 91Bear »

jimmy828 wrote:Don't know the thickness of metal but i don't think DC skimmed on it.
Did you paint the FORD lettering or are those decals?
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Re: Dennis Carpenter Tailgate Quality

Post by jimmy828 »

91Bear wrote:
jimmy828 wrote:Don't know the thickness of metal but i don't think DC skimmed on it.
Did you paint the FORD lettering or are those decals?
Good quality decals from WWW.Graphic-Express.com. I tried those cheaper decals from NPD but was not satisfied with quality.
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