MAR-K TAILGATES VS IMPORT TAILGATES
MAR-K tailgates are manufactured using the same thickness steel materials that were used originally. This results in a product that is as strong as the original tailgate and has the same look as the original. It does not feel springy or "flimsy" as do the tailgates from other companies. The skin of our tailgates is 16 gage steel, electrogalvanized, and formed and welded like the original. An import "no script" GM stepside tailgate weighs about 23 lbs while the MAR-K no-script tailgate weighs 28 lbs, as does the original tailgate. This lightweight construction causes a significant reduction in strength and would not be acceptable for most pickup truck applications. The last thing you need is for the tailgate to be damaged by someone innocently stepping on the tailgate or pushing on the truck and buckling the tailgate and ruining your paint. Select Mar-K parts that will perform to your expectations.
MAR-K tailgates are spot welded with substantial welds that are accurately spaced and aligned with the bends and edges. We use a purpose-built spot welding machine that controls all the processes with a computer and is very repeatable. We regularly perform destructive tests during each production run to verify that the welds are strong. The photo below, left shows the welds on a MAR-K tailgate. As you can see, the welds are consistent and evenly spaced.
The photo above right shows an actual import tailgate which has welds that are much smaller and that are very erratically aligned. Unfortunately, poor quality such as this is all too typical. This lack of caring about appearance and size of the welds is not appropriate for a properly built custom truck. Compare that to the photo of the MAR-K tailgate with the precision welds accurately spaced (above left). The MAR-K tailgate is stronger and has a better quality appearance. There is a difference and you don't have to settle for inferior products. Specify MAR-K Quality Parts, and you will really receive top quality products for your truck.
MAR-K tailgates are available in a wide-ranging variety of custom options. Because our tailgates are made right here in
our Oklahoma City plant, we can manufacture and supply custom tailgates such as louvres, embossed bowtie, smooth, no-script, no latch, flush fit double wall, tailgates with integral latches and handle and our GM push button tailgates. There are
over 25 different types of tailgates available for a 1950 Chevy Stepside and this is just one example of the many choices. These options are just not available from importers and we continue to develop more varieties to satisfy your need for custom tailgates.
At MAR-K we regularly test fit our products to make sure that all dimensions are accurate and will fit the original trucks. Tailgates must fit and operate smoothly for satisfactory performance. The bends are made on our modern computer controlled presses for repeatable accuracy. When you choose MAR-K your parts will fit properly
and you will get the best value for your money. And best of all, the parts are manufactured right here in the USA by Americans that really care about providing the best pickup parts for your ride.
The differences between tailgates is typical of the differences we see between all of the parts we make and those of the "other guys". Insist on MAR-K manufactured products and GENUINE MAR-K!