5' X 8' SINGLE AXLE TRAILER: TAILGATES

Tailgate Fabrication

Setting up the tailgates is similar to the sides but care needs when welding to prevent the tailgates from twisting. Use the tongue as a clamping table if you have no other suitable surface.

Position the angle uprights at either end of the tie rail as per the drawing, square the uprights to the tie rail and tack weld.

Mark the center of the panel on the top lip and drill a hole to suit the rod center support. Mark the bottom lip to help line the rod up when in position.

Fit the panel with the lips facing upwards, between the uprights and flush at the bottom. Tack weld panel to the uprights.

Slide in the rod center support, line up with the bottom mark and tack weld into position.

Clamp a piece of flat bar across the top of the tailgate lip and place a hinge pipe underneath. This will ensure the hinge pipe is flush with the top of the lip. Adjust the hinge pipe until it is flush with the outside edge of the angle upright and tack into position. Repeat with the other outer hinge pipe and centralize the center hinge pipe and tack into position.

 Fully weld the hinge pipes and the upper and lower lips as shown

Stitch weld the center rod and angle uprights to the panel as shown below.