The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Making a Stovebolt Bed S-Link Tailgate Chain Eliminator

Hello fellow Stovebolters.  I have something I’ve been working on for awhile, and in an effort to "create some buzz," I contacted John and Peggy Milliman and they agreed to let me use you guys and Stovebolt to give this a roadtest.

I call my idea the “S-Link Tailgate Chain Eliminator” and I'm inviting everyone to be part of a Focus Group to evaluate the product. 

First off, I know there are those purists among us who wouldn’t think for one second about deviating from the manufacturer’s original design. "Keep it stock!  Keep the chains!"

On the other hand,  some wouldn’t hesitate when it comes to modifying an old car or truck:  in the interest of cost, personal taste, parts availability etc.. 

(Not debating the “stock or not” argument. Just saying. )

I just want to introduce another option for those who would rather simply not use tailgate chains and to see if there might be a market for another approach. 

The vendors have numerous ways to eliminate the chains and if you’re interested you can go check out those options. Personally, I didn’t like what I found. I didn’t want to drill additional holes thru the face panels of the tailgate or bedsides.  I didn't want to do any bodywork to my freshly painted bed or tailgate.  I wanted to keep the panels as clean as possible, both closed and open.

So I came up with the “S-Link Tailgate Chain Eliminator” (SLTCE) as my answer to the age old chain dilemma.  Now I’m asking for your opinions, ideas, and feedback.

The original SLTCE, as seen in the link, is on my 1948 Chevy (please note that the bed and tailgate on my truck are actually from an ’87 Stepside; 1954 thru 1987 tailgates are the same).  I’ve made six more of these, all for GM Stepsides, and every time I build one I make improvements. Those other six are available for evaluation or possible sale.

Now, I’m absolutely certain that many of you, if you're inclined, will be able to clone this item from the pictures.  From watching the forums, I’ve found that many of you guys have tremendous fabricating skills and backgrounds and knowledge:  would any of you have an interest in helping me produce this item (if it comes to that)?  Do you own or work for a shop that would be interested in production of this SLTCE?  Preferably in the St. Louis area? Do you see any problems with the design?  Do you have any ideas for improvements?  Ford? Dodge?

If you can't or don't want to build one yourself, would you want to purchase one?  Let me know what you think it’s worth? From my limited production efforts, I can tell you that it takes about $30 in materials and 4-5 hours of labor to make each unit. If you really want one,  send me a PM and I'll put you on a list and contact you if this Item takes off. We’ll give Stovebolters a break. 

Do any of  you have any connections or work with the vendors?  I’ve pitched this product to some of the vendors and received some positive interest, but I need to determine if I should take the plunge and make a batch. How many? 

I’m hoping that from your feedback,  I’ll be able to determine what the market might be or if there even is a market.  Some of you guys have your own websites for marketing different items:  care to take on another? 

Guys, I’m not a businessman.  I don’t have a website (should I have one?). I’m a retired guy with a small workshop and an idea. So I welcome your thoughts and am asking for your help.  Please be a part of this Focus Group and put your thoughts or questions here.  I don't have any reservations about answering your questions in the open Forums, but, if you’d rather send me a PM, that’s great also.

I’d like to thank Stovebolt for letting me use the site, and hopefully this item catches on so I can return the favor.

Check out the Album:  S-Link Tailgate Chain Eliminator

I really look forward to hearing from you.

Regards, 
Dave
(Flatblu4748)
2-19-16

Stovebolt.com