Tailgate cable vs steel link?

[lxe4]

Hey there. Haven't seen a set on a truck in quite a while, never seen new ones in a store or aftermarket catalogue, those steel bars that are used instead of cables to limit the tailgate in the down position. having some experience with the steel cables, i wonder what those with experience with the steel bars think of them? seems to me they would break much less than the cables. Do they rattle a bunch?

 

[deejaaa]

i tried finding a set just the other day but couldn't. a link would be great. i will review afterwards.

 

[88GMCtruck]

They were used IIRC 88-92 on the GMT400 trucks. On the two later truck's i've had (98 and a 99) I've swapped them over.

They are just noisy when you open the tailgate and less "smooth" but they are considerably stronger. I've seen tons of broken cables... never a broken strap.

 

[Bob L]

I remember when that was what they all had. You need to keep them greased or they bind but then grease gets all over you and your clothes. Cables last quit a while and are cheap I don't see the need to change.