Old Jeep Tailgates For Sale: A Comprehensive Guide to Finding, Restoring, and Utilizing These Iconic Pieces

Old Jeep Tailgates For Sale: A Comprehensive Guide to Finding, Restoring, and Utilizing These Iconic Pieces jeeps.truckstrend.com

The unmistakable silhouette of a Jeep, with its rugged lines and go-anywhere attitude, is deeply etched into automotive history. Integral to that classic profile is the tailgate – far more than just a functional closure for the rear. For enthusiasts, restorers, and customizers, an old Jeep tailgate is a piece of Americana, a canvas for creativity, and a vital component for maintaining the authenticity or enhancing the utility of their beloved vehicle. This comprehensive guide will delve into the world of "Old Jeep Tailgates For Sale," exploring why they are sought after, where to find them, how to evaluate their condition, and what to do with them once acquired.

The Enduring Appeal of Old Jeep Tailgates

Old Jeep Tailgates For Sale: A Comprehensive Guide to Finding, Restoring, and Utilizing These Iconic Pieces

An old Jeep tailgate is more than just a sheet of metal; it’s a tangible link to a rich heritage. Whether it’s the simple, robust design of a Willys MB tailgate or the more refined, yet still utilitarian, lines of a CJ or YJ, each one tells a story. For many, finding an original tailgate is crucial for a historically accurate restoration, ensuring their vintage Jeep maintains its factory-correct appearance. For others, a tailgate might be needed to replace a damaged one, to convert a hardtop Jeep to a soft top, or even for a unique custom project. Beyond functionality, these tailgates evoke nostalgia, symbolize freedom, and represent an era of no-nonsense, purpose-built vehicles. They possess a character that modern mass-produced parts often lack, making them highly desirable in the enthusiast community.

Navigating the World of Old Jeep Tailgates

The term "Old Jeep Tailgates" encompasses a wide variety of models, each with its unique characteristics and desirability. Understanding these differences is crucial for any potential buyer.

Types and Eras of Jeep Tailgates

• Willys MB/Ford GPW (WWII Era): These are the grandfathers of all Jeeps. Their tailgates are simple, flat, and often bear the iconic "Willys" or "Ford" script. Extremely rare and highly sought after for authentic restorations.
• Willys Civilian Jeeps (CJ-2A, CJ-3A, CJ-3B, CJ-5, CJ-6): These tailgates evolved over the years but retained a classic, rugged simplicity. Early CJ-2A/3A tailgates often featured "WILLYS" embossed lettering. Later CJ-5/6/7/8 tailgates were more robust, designed to withstand heavy use, and are among the most common old tailgates found today. They are typically top-hinged or side-hinged depending on the year and model, with varying latch mechanisms.
• Jeep Wrangler YJ (1987-1995): Known for its square headlights, the YJ tailgate introduced a more modern, yet still distinctly Jeep, aesthetic. These are often easier to find than CJ tailgates and can be a good option for custom builds.



• Jeep Wrangler TJ (1997-2006): The TJ brought back round headlights and a more refined interior, but its tailgate maintained the classic swing-out design, typically accommodating an external spare tire carrier. These are relatively common and popular for replacements or upgrades.
• J-Series Trucks (Gladiator, Honcho): While not typically "tailgates" in the traditional sense for Wranglers, the tailgates from Jeep’s full-size trucks (J-10, J-20) are also highly sought after by truck enthusiasts for restoration projects. They are significantly larger and heavier.
• Military Jeeps (M38, M38A1): Similar to civilian CJs but often featuring specific military-grade hardware and sometimes different body characteristics.

Identifying the correct tailgate for your specific Jeep model and year is paramount. Pay attention to dimensions, hinge placement, latch type, and any unique indentations or stampings.

Where to Begin Your Hunt: Finding Old Jeep Tailgates For Sale

The search for the perfect old Jeep tailgate can be an adventure in itself. Here are the most common avenues:

1. Online Marketplaces (eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist): These platforms offer the widest reach. You’ll find everything from rusty relics to fully restored pieces. Be prepared for shipping challenges and scrutinize photos carefully.
2. Specialty Jeep Parts Dealers & Salvage Yards: Many businesses specialize in vintage Jeep parts. They often have an inventory of used tailgates, sometimes already prepped or restored. Salvage yards (junkyards) are treasure troves, but finding the exact part in good condition requires patience and a willingness to get dirty.
3. Jeep Forums and Enthusiast Groups: Online forums and social media groups dedicated to specific Jeep models (e.g., CJ-7 forums) are excellent places to ask around. Members often sell parts they no longer need or can point you to reputable sellers.
4. Swap Meets & Auto Shows: Attending classic car and Jeep swap meets can yield fantastic finds. You can inspect the tailgate in person, negotiate prices, and often avoid shipping costs.
5. Local Classifieds and Word-of-Mouth: Sometimes the best deals are found locally. Let friends, mechanics, and local Jeep clubs know what you’re looking for.

Evaluating Condition: A Buyer’s Checklist

Once you’ve located a potential tailgate, a thorough inspection is critical, especially when buying sight unseen.

• Rust: The biggest enemy. Check for surface rust, but more importantly, look for bubbling paint, perforations, and rust around hinges, latches, and drain holes. Pitting can indicate deeper issues.
• Dents and Bends: Minor dents can be repaired, but severe bends or creases might indicate structural damage or require extensive bodywork. Ensure the tailgate is relatively flat and square.
• Hinge Points: Inspect where the hinges attach to the tailgate. These areas often see stress and can be prone to cracking or rust. Ensure the hinge holes are not wallowed out.
• Latch Mechanism: Check if the latch is present, functional, and not seized. Replacements are available but add to the cost.
• Drain Holes: Many tailgates have drain holes at the bottom. Ensure they are clear and not rusted out, as clogged drains trap water and accelerate rust.
• Originality: If authenticity is key, look for original paint, stampings (like "WILLYS" or part numbers), and factory hardware.
• Prior Repairs: Look for signs of bondo, poor welds, or inconsistent paint, which might hide underlying damage.

Restoration vs. Ready-to-Install: Making the Choice

After acquiring an old Jeep tailgate, you’ll face a decision: restore it yourself, have it professionally restored, or simply install it as-is if its condition allows.

• As-Is Installation: If the tailgate is in remarkably good shape (rare for old parts), you might simply clean it, touch up paint, and install. This is the most cost-effective but least common scenario.
• DIY Restoration: For the mechanically inclined and those with basic bodywork skills, restoring a tailgate can be a rewarding project. This involves stripping old paint, repairing rust (cutting out and welding in new metal), sanding, priming, and painting. This saves labor costs but requires time, tools, and expertise.
• Professional Restoration: If you want a show-quality finish or the tailgate is severely damaged, a professional body shop or restorer can bring it back to life. This is the most expensive option but yields the best results. They can address complex rust issues, perfectly align panels, and apply a durable, high-quality paint finish.

Installation Considerations

Installing an old Jeep tailgate, even a "ready-to-install" one, requires attention to detail.

• Hinges: Ensure you have the correct hinges (top or side mount) and that they are in good working order. Lubricate them before installation.
• Alignment: Proper alignment is crucial for the tailgate to close smoothly and seal correctly. You might need to adjust hinges or body mounts slightly.
• Latches and Strikers: Ensure the latch mechanism engages properly with the body-mounted striker. Adjustments may be necessary for a secure closure.
• Weatherstripping: New weatherstripping around the tailgate opening will prevent water and dust from entering the vehicle.
• Spare Tire Carrier: If your Jeep uses a swing-out spare tire carrier mounted to the tailgate, ensure the tailgate is strong enough to support it and that the mounting points are intact.

Creative Uses Beyond Replacement

Old Jeep tailgates, even those too far gone for vehicle use, have found new life in creative ways:

• Wall Art/Decor: Hung on a garage or den wall, a painted or even rusty tailgate makes a fantastic piece of automotive art.
• Furniture: With some clever fabrication, tailgates can be transformed into unique tables, benches, or even bars for a man cave.
• Garden Features: A tailgate can be repurposed as part of a garden gate, a decorative fence section, or a unique planter.
• Shop Benches: Its sturdy construction makes it a good candidate for a small workbench top.

Challenges and Solutions

• Finding Rare Models: Patience is key. Expand your search radius, join model-specific forums, and be willing to wait for the right piece to appear.
• Dealing with Rust: Small areas can be sanded and patched. For extensive rust, consider professional repair or replacing the entire panel if possible. Prevention (proper painting, drainage) is always best.
• Shipping Large Items: Tailgates are bulky. Get shipping quotes before buying. Freight services or specialized automotive transport might be necessary, adding significant cost. Local pickup is always ideal.
• Matching Paint: If you’re not repainting the entire vehicle, professional paint matching is recommended for a seamless look.

Price Guide: Old Jeep Tailgates For Sale

The price of an old Jeep tailgate varies widely based on its rarity, condition, model year, and seller. The table below offers a general guide.

Jeep Model Era	Condition Category	Price Range (USD)	Notes
Willys MB/GPW	Poor/Rusty	$300 – $800	Often requires extensive fabrication/rust repair
(WWII Era)	Fair/Usable	$800 – $1,500	Surface rust, minor dents, but structurally sound
	Good/Restored	$1,500 – $3,000+	Professionally restored, authentic details, rare finds
Willys CJ-2A/3A/3B	Poor/Rusty	$150 – $400	Significant rust, dents, missing hardware
(Early Civilian)	Fair/Usable	$400 – $800	Surface rust, minor dings, may need new hinges/latches
	Good/Restored	$800 – $1,500	Clean, straight, primed or painted, all hardware included
Jeep CJ-5/6/7/8	Poor/Rusty	$100 – $300	Common, but often heavily rusted, especially lower edges
(Mid-Late Civilian)	Fair/Usable	$300 – $600	Dents, surface rust, but good core for restoration
	Good/Restored	$600 – $1,200	Clean, minimal rust, primed or painted, ready for installation
Jeep Wrangler YJ	Poor/Rusty	$75 – $250	Often have rust around hinges and spare tire mounts
(1987-1995)	Fair/Usable	$250 – $500	Minor cosmetic flaws, functional, good for daily driver
	Good/Restored	$500 – $900	Clean, straight, painted, ready to bolt on
Jeep Wrangler TJ	Poor/Rusty	$100 – $300	Less common to be "rusty" but can have dents or structural issues
(1997-2006)	Fair/Usable	$300 – $600	Functional, minor scratches/dents, may need paint
	Good/Restored	$600 – $1,000	Excellent condition, primed or painted, ready for installation
J-Series Truck	Poor/Rusty	$200 – $500	Large, heavy, rust often an issue, especially on lower seams
(Gladiator, J-10/20)	Fair/Usable	$500 – $1,000	Dents, surface rust, but functional
	Good/Restored	$1,000 – $2,500+	Rare to find fully restored, high demand for truck builds

Note: Prices are estimates and can fluctuate based on market demand, location, and the specific seller. Shipping costs are typically extra and can be substantial for large items.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Are old Jeep tailgates interchangeable between different models?
A1: Generally, no. While some CJ models might share very similar tailgates (e.g., CJ-7 and CJ-8 Scrambler), a CJ tailgate will not fit a YJ, and neither will fit a TJ. Dimensions, hinge points, and latch mechanisms are usually different. Always verify compatibility for your specific year and model.

Q2: How do I tell what year or model an old tailgate is from?
A2: Look for unique features like embossed lettering ("WILLYS"), specific hinge styles (top-hinged vs. side-hinged), latch types, and the overall dimensions. For CJs, the presence or absence of a spare tire mount reinforcement on the tailgate itself can also be a clue, though many were aftermarket. Consult online resources, forums, and part diagrams specific to your Jeep model.

Q3: What’s the best way to ship a tailgate if I buy one online?
A3: For long distances, freight shipping (LTL – Less Than Truckload) is usually the most economical for large, heavy items like tailgates. You’ll need to properly package it on a pallet. Local pickup or using a private courier service might be options for shorter distances. Always get shipping quotes before committing to a purchase.

Q4: Is it worth restoring a very rusty tailgate?
A4: It depends on the severity of the rust and your budget/skill level. If it’s mostly surface rust or small holes, DIY restoration is feasible. If there’s extensive structural rust, missing metal, or the tailgate is warped, a professional restoration can be costly and sometimes exceed the value of a replacement in better condition. For rare models, however, any condition might be worth restoring.

Q5: Can I mount a heavy spare tire on an old tailgate?
A5: Most older Jeep tailgates (especially CJs and YJs) were not designed to directly support the weight of a full-size spare tire. They typically relied on a bumper-mounted or body-mounted swing-away tire carrier. Mounting a heavy spare directly to the tailgate without proper reinforcement can lead to hinge damage, tailgate warping, and even structural failure over time. Always use an external carrier for heavy tires.

Conclusion

The pursuit of "Old Jeep Tailgates For Sale" is a journey into the heart of Jeep culture. Whether you’re a purist seeking an authentic replacement, a restorer breathing new life into a classic, or a customizer looking for a unique piece, these iconic tailgates offer a blend of history, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. By understanding the different types, knowing where to look, diligently evaluating condition, and planning for restoration or installation, you can successfully acquire and utilize these distinctive elements. An old Jeep tailgate isn’t just a part; it’s a testament to the enduring legacy of a true American icon, ready for its next chapter on or off the beaten path.