Wagon/ Elky rear tailgate torsion spring re-attachment

[Longroof79]

I'm in the process of reattaching my tailgate torsion spring and bracket. Because the spring has to be preloaded, it makes it a bear to get back on.
My question is, is there a method, or easier way to get the bracket back on with the load of the torsion spring?

I know I've done this before, but perhaps I'm losing my touch. If anyone out there has a better method of doing this, my hands and I would greatly appreciate it.

Thank you!

 

[tc1959]

Jack, ....My 78 fisher Body book says, "Lift the tailgate sufficiently to achieve a neutral torque rod position, or until tension on torque rod has been relived.
Mark position of torque rod attaching link on back body pillar, Then remove the two bolts."
"Reverse procedure to install.
I hope this isn't making you more confused but that's all the info I could find in the book about the torque rod. One very small paragraph, With one picture. "

 

[Longroof79]

Thank you very much, Paul.
It doesn't sound much different than what I have been doing. Although the information is a bit vague, I appreciate the illustration. :wink:
It's a little tight between the quarter panel edge, the tailgate, and the actual bracket itself, as far as getting the bolts back in.
It's also tough getting the bolts threaded with the bracket under pressure from the spring.

 

[liquidh8]

Jack, I can't recall any of the wagons I have had having that. I could really be wrong though, since my CRS (Can't Remember sh*t) is been acting up allot lately. Lol, I have had my tailgates countless times too.

 

[Longroof79]

Well. I tried a different approach. I bolted the bracket back on, loosened the torsion spring, removed it from where it was held at the right side of the tailgate. Attached the bracket end, put two of the holding clamps back on, and took a pair of visegrips on the end of the spring. I twisted it until I was able to push it back into the opening (pocket)...done!
I felt relieved...closed the tailgate and found a small outward dimple..(pimple?) The end of the spring apparently made contact with the sheetmetal. I felt sick.. 😳 I said /I got my hammer and dolly out. Put a piece of tape on the head of the hammer, backed it up with the dolly, and lightly tapped at the protruding pimple. I was able to get it fairly level, but you could still see it a bit. Fortunately I didn't break the paint. I think I'll just have to live with it.
I just remember working so hard blocking that SOB....oh well, life isn't easy sometimes. :?

 

[liquidh8]

Man, that sucks *ss. Get the paintless dent guy out and get it fixed maybe?

 

[tc1959]

Well. I tried a different approach. I bolted the bracket back on, loosened the torsion spring, removed it from where it was held at the right side of the tailgate. Attached the bracket end, put two of the holding clamps back on, and took a pair of visegrips on the end of the spring. I twisted it until I was able to push it back into the opening (pocket)...done!
I felt relieved...closed the tailgate and found a small outward dimple..(pimple?) The end of the spring apparently made contact with the sheetmetal. I felt sick.. 😳 I said /I got my hammer and dolly out. Put a piece of tape on the head of the hammer, backed it up with the dolly, and lightly tapped at the protruding pimple. I was able to get it fairly level, but you could still see it a bit. Fortunately I didn't break the paint. I think I'll just have to live with it.
I just remember working so hard blocking that SOB....oh well, life isn't easy sometimes. :?