GEN 2 Someone please tell me how to remove the tailgate torsion bar (permanently!!)

[91Eunos]

There is a torsion rod running through the tailgate. On this torsion rod there are two rubber grommets that prevent the bar from touching the bottom of the tailgate. If they are in the wrong position you will hear the rod smacking the bottom of the tailgate right before it shuts. These gromets need to be slid further towards the outside edges of the rod. About 12” from the end of the rod on both sides. You need to remove the tailgate, loosen the two small bolts that clamp the rod in place on the passenger side and then slide the rod out of the tailgate. Reposition the grommets about 12 inches from either end of the torsion rod. Reassemble and you’re popping sound will disappear. It’s a pain in the butt but that is the true fix. I speak from experience.


On both ends of the tailgate there is an access hole where you can see through the entire tailgate. You can see the rod and the grommets. If you can rig something up to grab these grommets and help slide them down the rod you won’t need to disassemble anything. Lube up the rod, maybe try a coat hanger and bring lots of patience.

View attachment 120184

Truth... And frankly, due to the weight you don’t want to remove it unless you don’t have the flex step (but those don’t have the torsion rod anyway).

Unless you just want a workout of course!

 

[ChadL]

NiceF150 - I have a 2009 F150 STX. On my tail gate on the right side, instead of two bolts, there is a single bolt and what appears to be the head of a pin or a rivet where one would expect the second bolt. Do you know if I loosen the single bolt, if that will allow me to remove the torsion bar as you described? Thanks,