Ford tailgate

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I am having to replace the tailgate on my 06 F-350 due to being bent and bowed out.  The tail gates are junk and will bend with minimal weight applied.Has anyone seen or know a good way to add another plate on top of the tail gate that would stregthen  and reduce the tendency to bow.  I have thought about taking a piec of 12 ga. and bending in ribs to help a little.  Looking for ideas or pictures.ThanksDan D.
Reply:One of my customers had me make one out of 1/4" aluminum tread plate. I welded about a  2" wide strip on the top of the plate to go over the top of the tail gate. He's been real happy about it. I've not got pics but maybe I'll get a chance when he come in one of these days.Millermatic 252XMT 304'sDynasty 280DXHypertherm PowerMax 1250Miller Trailblazer 302 EFIOptima PulserXR feeder and XR Edge gun and more athttp://members.dslextreme.com/users/waynecook/index.htm
Reply:I would start with preventative measures, tailgates arent designed to support a load. Try to keep yourself from setting heavy loads on them. As for the reinforcing, I agree with the plate and ribs to stiffen it but the mounting points will still not be built for a heavy load.