It won't get stolen--I can't remove my Tailgate?

It has the typical rust from rubbing on the plastic bumper cover. I would like to repair it. What is the best process for removing it to clean it up? I was able to loosen the right hinge bolt (but it won't slide out). Left one, broke the head off , but still acting as a pin to hold the hinge. Any guidance will be much appreciated.

 

Can you remove the hinge to get the tailgate outta the way then remove the hinge?

 

Started going there . . . but those torx screws are really in there, and I'm concerned about more breakage--this time the torx bit in the screw head!

 

Use some penetrating oil

 

x2 If ur dealing with rust. Ive read a mixture of ATF and paint thinner is the best penetrating oil.

 

It looks like the screw heads are painted in tightly!

 

Use an impact socket for the torx head, and either a strong air wrench or breaker bar for leverage. The fact that the bolts are painted means they should be protected from corrosion and thus not need penetration by oil.

There's also another tool, can't remember the name but you put it over a socket and hit it with a hammer instead of turning the socket.

Or just take it to a body shop and they'll do one of the above.

 

Impact screwdriver?

Id try an impact wrenchif possible. Lots of little hits usually works.

 

I'm gonna try air-impact, if they make a 3/8" torx T40 bit. Thanks, everyone, for the advice so far.
BTW: My current bicycle's bed doesn't carry much!

 

So the screws are in so tight, the bit rounded the screw heads. I pushed it in as tight as I could. Anyone ever drill em out and replace 'em (this is getting way too involved for what it's worth).

 

3/8" torx driver =

 

This. Let the tool do the work, amazing what a good smack or two will loosen up.

 

Actually, used the driver first, and it wouldn't budge (and appeared to be messing the head), so I went to the air driver. Maybe it just ain't meant to be?

 

Do you have any pics of what you're doing?

 

I will (why didn't I think of that?)

 

OK. Sorry this took so long. I was finally successful! I used my sawzall to cut the bolt on the left--between the tailgate hinge and the truck. That left a rusted stud and the bushing for the tailgate to ride on. Using PB Blaster and heat and a vise-grip, was able to get the stud out. Cut the bushing into pieces to remove it. Bought new bolts and bushings from the dealer, painted the gate, and put it back on. However the plastic covers on the bumper still rub--I can't get the bumper mounting bolts loose. Have an appointment with a body shop to loosen them and push the bumper forward, maybe lower it also (there's a hitch that may prevent lowering).
Needless to say, the hinge bolts are now gooped up with Never-Seeze, but hopefully won't have to do this again!
Thanks for everyone's suggestions. And again, sorry for the delay for this post.

 

those bumper covers are held in by clips and screws. clips may be broken, they are attached to the plastic piece so can't replace

 

Yes, I'm aware. The right side is missing most (I used construction adhesive to hold it down. The left side is better, I spread the plastic clips by cramming foam between the sides, to hold them spread. Screws? Not aware of any . . .