1940 ford pickup tailgate chain install
 

Can any one help me with photos of the tailgate chains, hooks and retainer springs for a 1940 ford pickup. The truck was brought to our shop in parts for paint and reassembly.

Re: 1940 ford pickup tailgate chain install
 

I took a bit of video showing the chains, here are some stills from it as I haven't published it.

The truck is parked right by the back door, if you want any more let me know.

No springs on this job.

Mart.

Re: 1940 ford pickup tailgate chain install
 

Here ya go...

Re: 1940 ford pickup tailgate chain install
 

Ah. so the ARE springs, then, Mike. Are they just a safety device, to stop accidental unlatching of the hook, or is there some sort of anti-rattle function?

Re: 1940 ford pickup tailgate chain install
 

Gosh Mart, I can't tell you with any authority why there were springs. I can tell you that originally - there were.

Re: 1940 ford pickup tailgate chain install
 

More photos. I think the spring loaded catch acts as a safety device to insure the hook on the strap stays engaged with the eye on the tailgate. If you need more detail PM me and I'll take some closeups.

Re: 1940 ford pickup tailgate chain install
 

I don't have springs on my chains but I can see how they would make lowering the tailgate easier. Without them I have to put pressure on the gate so the hook doesn't slide out as I hook the opposite side. Sometimes it take a couple of tries.