Another tailgate question...

[Bassler]

I have a '97 Sport which has a damaged tailgate I need to replace. Before I head off to the junkyard for a replacement, I was wondering if anyone knew what span of years are compatible. Am I stuck with having to get a tailgate off a '97 to '01, or is the pre'-97 tailgate the same? I'm not familiar enough with the model changes, unfortunately...

Thanks,
Mike

[JDPascal]

The wrecking yard people should have an interchange manual that tells what years parts fit what other year vehicles.

Or - you could go to a body shop. They will have the same information.

I'm not familiar enough with the body styles yet to give you a firm answer right here and now.

Please post back when you find out what fits what.

JD

[Bassler]

Originally Posted by JDPascal

The wrecking yard people should have an interchange manual that tells what years parts fit what other year vehicles.

Or - you could go to a body shop. They will have the same information.

I'm not familiar enough with the body styles yet to give you a firm answer right here and now.

Please post back when you find out what fits what.

JD

Thanks for the suggestions. I have a friend that runs a body shop. I'm sure he has that universal parts manual. I'll let you know what I find out.

Mike

[AlohaBra]

Originally Posted by Bassler

I have a '97 Sport which has a damaged tailgate I need to replace. Before I head off to the junkyard for a replacement, I was wondering if anyone knew what span of years are compatible. Am I stuck with having to get a tailgate off a '97 to '01, or is the pre'-97 tailgate the same? I'm not familiar enough with the model changes, unfortunately...

Thanks,
Mike

The early looks different and has no third light and the latch is different .
I have a 97 ,an 01, and used to have an 84. The early might fit but will look kinda ugly. It is fiberglass if you want to patch it. The inside panel is different too. However, I was just in China and the Jeep Cherokee there still uses the old gate making it look kinda different.

Use the gallery button below to see pictures.

[Bassler]

I just bumped into a guy yesterday who has a '95. It definitely was different in appearance, and I'm guessing, fit. Turns out my friend only has the import repair reference guide, so I got nowhere there. Looks like I'll just stick to a '97 and later tailgate to play it safe.

Thanks,
Mike