HardwareMFG.COM

Tailgate J Hooks

Secure and Reliable Tailgate Latching Solutions

  • Reduce injury
  • Prevent jam-ups
  • Ensure long-lasting performance
  • Proudly made in the USA 
hardwaremfg

The Safer, More Reliable, 

& User-Friendly

Tailgate J-Hook Solution

Upgrade your tailgate systems with HardwareMFG's modernized J-Hooks. We've directly addressed the safety and operational issues of traditional hairpin designs, offering a robust, user-friendly, and cost-effective solution proudly made in Saint Louis, MO.

Eliminated Lost Pins & Unexpected Tailgate Drops

Say goodbye to lost or misplaced hair cotter pins. Our secure threaded rod and locknut system prevents tailgates from unexpectedly flopping open, even on rough roads, ensuring load security.

Enhanced Safety - No More Sharp Hairpins

Our innovative design eliminates the dangerous hair cotter pin, preventing snags and cuts to customers' clothing or arms.

Anti-Wedging Design

We've squared off the top of the J-Hook to prevent unwanted wedging, whether from accidental impact or use as a step, eliminating the need for hammers to dislodge them.

Stronger Build, Same or Lower Cost

Utilizing a robust 9/16” diameter wire (compared to import's nominal 7/16” or 1/2”), our J-Hooks offer a more substantial look and feel without increasing your costs.

Superior Corrosion Resistance

Our upgrade to yellow zinc dichromate plating provides significantly better salt spray test results, ensuring longer-lasting rust inhibition and a professional appearance.

Versatile Tube Fit

We provide two different tube diameters to accommodate slight variations in customer frame and tailgate fitment needs.

We know J-hooks! 

Need dependable tailgate J-Hooks or versatile slide bolts? 
We've simplified your search by grouping our latching solutions below.

9/16” Tailgate J-Hook Assembly

with Locknut....

7/16” Tailgate J-Hook Assembly

with Cotter Hairpin....

Universal Slide Bolt

Left Hand / Right Hand....
J-Hook illustration with measurements.

Modernized Tailgate J-Hook Assembly with Locknut Features:

Designed with a squared-off top to prevent wedging

  1. A robust 9/16” diameter steel J-Hook with improved yellow zinc dichromate plating.
  2. It eliminates the hazardous hairpin with a secure threaded rod and locknut, preventing lost pins and accidental tailgate drops.
  3. Includes a stiffer spring 
  4. And two un-plated tubes for welding onto frames.

Key Dimensions: 

  • 9/16" diameter wire,
  • 6 3/4" total height,
  • 3 1/4" width,
  • 2 9/16" hook depth.
  • Threaded rod is 5/8-11 thread, 5/8" length on J hook end.

Materials:

  • CRS (Cold Rolled Steel) or Type 1018 or 1215.
  • Nut: 5/8-11. Spring: 5/8" I.D. x 4" L..
  • Tubes: CRS or Type 1018 or 1215
hardwaremfg

Traditional Tailgate J-Hook Assembly with Cotter Hairpin

A reliable steel J-Hook assembly featuring a 7/16” nominal diameter wire and a silver color zinc plate finish.

This option utilizes a traditional cotter hairpin fastening mechanism for secure tailgate closure.

Includes two un-plated tubes for welding, and we offer two different tube diameters (P/N CA-875-2 and P/N CA-1125-1.5) in case a slightly more distant fit is needed for your frame and tailgate.

Universal Left Hand / Right Hand Slide Bolt

A versatile and robust slide bolt designed for universal left-hand or right-hand operation.

This durable latching mechanism is ideal for securing gates, doors, and panels across a wide range of industrial, commercial, and agricultural applications.

Built for reliable performance and long-lasting use.

Contact HardwareMFG.com for Quote

Request Quote

Applications Across Industries

HardwareMFG's modernized J-Hooks provide secure, reliable, and user-friendly latching solutions across a broad spectrum of industries, addressing common challenges and enhancing operational safety.
Black and white shot of a heavy military tracked vehicle loaded onto a large flatbed truck trailer on a highway.
Heavy-Duty Trucking & Transportation
Our modernized J-Hook assemblies provide a crucial safety upgrade for heavy-duty truck and trailer tailgates. The secure threaded rod and locknut system prevents lost pins and eliminates unexpected tailgate drops from road vibrations, securing cargo and preventing accidents. The squared-off top design also prevents wedging, ensuring smooth operation even with heavy use.
A green John Deere tractor, possibly a 6100 model, with a full trailer attached, parked in a field under a cloudy sky.
Agricultural Equipment & Machinery
In agriculture, our J-Hooks are ideal for securing access panels, gates, and hinged components on farm machinery. The modernized design, free from snag-prone hairpins, enhances operator safety, preventing injuries during routine operations. Yellow zinc dichromate plating assures longer rust inhibition.
Light-duty utility trailer with an open top and rear gate.
Utility & Commercial Trailer Manufacturing
Integral for utility and commercial trailers, our J-Hooks offer durable gate and ramp security. The anti-wedging design ensures effortless opening and closing, even if the J-hook is used as a step or impact point. For manufacturers, our robust construction provides a better-built look without increasing cost compared to imports.
A fabricator using a grinder to cut or smooth metal, with bright sparks flying.
Specialty Vehicle & Custom Fabrication
For specialty vehicle builders and custom fabricators, our J-Hooks offer design flexibility and superior performance. Our robust construction provides a professional aesthetic without added cost, even when compared to imports. Our improved yellow zinc dichromate plating assures enhanced corrosion resistance for demanding applications.

FAQ's

Can you accommodate large production volumes?
Yes, we are fully equipped to handle large-volume OEM orders directly from our manufacturing plant, ensuring consistent quality and reliable supply.
Do you offer custom solutions?
While our modernized design offers significant advantages, we are open to discussing potential custom modifications or specific OEM requirements for large-volume orders. Please contact us to explore your unique needs.
What materials are your Tailgate J-Hooks made from, and what plating options are available?
Our steel J-Hooks (P/N CA-56-3.25) are primarily crafted from CRS (Cold Rolled Steel) or Type 1018 or 1215. 

We offer improved yellow zinc dichromate plating for superior rust inhibition, and a traditional silver color zinc plate option. Our tubes are also CRS or Type 1018 or 1215. 

An all-aluminum J-Hook (3/4" diameter) is also available.
What are the typical tolerances for your Tailgate J-Hook components?
For our J-Hooks, standard tolerances are: Angles: +/- 1°, Dimensions: XX: +/-.015, XXX: +/-.005. 

Specific dimensions are detailed on our drawings, such as 9/16" diameter and 6 3/4" length for the J-hook (CA-56-3.25).
More questions?
Contact us - We love talking
Tailgate J-Hooks!

PDF Downloadable Catalogs

About HardwareMFG.com

Sales@HardwareMFG.com
(314) 436-0432

1415 South 18th Street
Saint Louis, MO 63104