How to Adjust the Fit of a Stromberg Carlson 5th Wheel Tailgate on a 2008 Chevy Silverado 2500HD

Updated 09/23/2025 | Published 10/07/2013

Question:

how do u adjust the latch so they hold gate closer to body line

asked by: Brian P

Expert Reply:

There are a couple of ways to adjust the position of tailgate # VGM-07-4000 for a better fit. First, the latches on either side of the tailgate have a minimal adjustment range of 1/32 inches. This is to fit around the striker bolt that goes into the latch on the truck.

To make a larger adjustment you would have to move the striker bolt on the truck to the designed position. The latch can be moved by loosening the latches moving and re-tightening. The striker bolt on the other hand could possibly welded on and would have to be cut off and welded back on by a qualified professional. This is if it does not have hardware that holds it on.

If it does have hardware use the appropriate tool to remove the striker bolts. Then you would have to drill new holes for the new position of the striker bolt.

expert reply by: Michael H

Bill M.

9/23/2025

The latches on my VGM-07-4000 don’t release unless I use a screwdriver. Is there a way to adjust the turnkey, so the latches release using the knob?

Jameson C.

9/23/2025

@BillM Does it seem like they are binding up and won't release or maybe the mechanism is too rusty/corroded and instead needs maybe some WD40. There isn't a way to adjust any portion of the latch mechanism.