55.2-59 Ol' Blue

[dsraven]

if you have the tailgate from your 57 you could test fit that to see if it fits the cameo.

[8man]

Raven, that is one cool tailgate!

I have found a couple of places that sell new tailgate components, the outer skin, the steel inner and the latches, hinges, etc. One is made here in the USA, and I have a buddy who just ordered one for his truck, so I'll get to see it before I buy it. So, I think I'm good on the tailgate, just wish it was all original.

Although, I admit I do like that one in the magazine article.

[8man]

IMG_1656 by Robert Moorman, on Flickr

Started taking the Cameo apart. All the bolts are rusted, as to be expected. I spent all day getting the remaining bed wood out, leaving the side rails bolted to the crossmembers.

HOW do you get those bolts out without damaging the sides? The side rails are straight and not rusted through and so I'd like to keep them. However, I can't drill the bolts out, they are too rusted to get the nut to come off, but not rusted enough to just break them, and that brings me to grinding them, but even the small air grinder with a cut off wheel is a little too close to the side.

Ideas?

IMG_1659 - Copy by Robert Moorman, on Flickr

Also, there are two things on each side, front and back, they look like an L shaped U channel that is flush with the top of the frame. If you look close at the picture, just behind the crossmember, and I think you can make it out. There is one on each side, and one more on each side at the next crossmember. What are they for and do I need them?

Thanks.