Just purchased a 2004 Rubicon which has it's tailgate hinges almost seized. Looking on line for replacements, I've run into some confusing info. It appears in 2004 Jeep made changes to these hinges but I can't seem to see any difference between what I've got on my Rubi and the early models. Just to confuse things even worse, most aftermarket makers are saying their hinges fit all models right up to '06. Does anybody know what is suppose to have changed? Can earlier hinges be still be used on '04 and ups?
'Preciate anyone who can enlighten me on this subject.
topbanana

 

Have a look on the Just Jeeps site,they have a few notes on fitment for their stainless kentrol hinges https://www.justjeeps.com/product.ph...84&cat=&page=1

 

A good quality penetrating oil should get the hinges working again, save yourself a few bucks. You can make your own penetrant using half acetone and half transmission fluid, it works better than anything you can buy.

 

It appears the difference in the hinges is that 04's built after Dec came with a smaller hinge with plastic covers. They all bolt up the same, the later hinges will just not provide the same coverage if you were not repainting the door. They're seems to be some disagreement as to wether the bolts have different threads as well. A little research however, found a HOW TO video of drilling a tiny hole into the hinge (with the door wide open) to access the pin and then injecting penetrating oil inside the hinge. After about an hour of spraying and swing the tailgate open and close, she swings almost like she was new!
topbanana