[jkeating1]

OK--I get that the remote control tailgate actuator is overkill! But I saw this idea in theastronaut's thread (from several years back). I like this trick:

"Had a pair of tailgate hinge bushings made from UHMW (Ultra High Molecular Weigh polyethylene). UHMW is self lubricating, is soft enough to keep the paint from chipping inside the hinge sockets, and hard enough to keep the tailgate in place. They fit tight enough in the hinge socket that they won't rattle either. Much better than the original metal bushings."