tailgate chain gaurds

what are you guys using for tailgate chain covers? what was original (1973)

I found some hose protecter at Campbell Brown in Charlotte that is a heavy duty woven material, we use it on hydraulic lines etc, and its cheap 2 bucks or less a foot. I know it will work but wondering if it would be close to original

 

I had some extra canvas sleeves that were originally designed for the top bows to keep the rod from rubbing the window. I cut to length and slid over the chain. And of course I cut them too short. But it was cheap.

 

I got some canvas ones from beachwood canvas works. The come in all different colors and vinyl also. Mine have been on there for 3 years now and haven't scratched up the paint yet.

 

Walck's has them too:

http://walcks4wd.com/tail-gate-chain-cover-set-black.html

That's what I used.

 

Original on a 73 was a plastic sleeve, sort of a rubbery PVC type of plastic. For replacements I used these from a Chevy stepside pickup: http://www.classictruck.com/category/1955-59_Trucks_Tailgate_Items_Tailgate_Chain_Covers

They're the right size, pretty cheap and they work great.

 

I've still got my original chains and covers in a box in the attic. I'll get them out and post some pics this evening if you can wait.

 

thanks a bunch guys

 

here is a pic. the material is approx 1" dia, .050" thick. I believe it is black PVC. Don't forget to punch the drain hole in the middle. This is original from my 71, but our family also had a 72 cj-5 and I know the chains were identical.
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bicycle inner tube.....

 

Beautiful color. What is it? Looking to paint mine Indian Ceramic howeve the paint store says they can get close but will be a bit redder than original.

 

Its standard red from a 90's Chevy truck. It is certainly bright!