I called Hopkins and they said that the torsion bar "Easy Lift" was for the '04 and newer. I told them that I didn't think there was any difference between the '04 and my '02 tailgate. I told them I would buy one and try it out and call them with my results.
Well, I have to say results are mixed. The product does what it says it will do, but following the manufacturers instructions the holes I had to drill seemed too small. When I went to put the torsion bar in, it actually bent the metal where the torsion bar is inserted into the hole, both on the truck AND the tailgate.
I am going to post some pics after I send them to the manufacturer. I don't think it is a big deal, but think that drilling some slightly larger holes (maybe 7/16" instead of 3/8") would probably solve the problem or at least alleviate some of the pressure.
I will say this: It does what it is supposed to. The tailgate can be lifter and lowered with two fingers. My tailgate has Linex installed so it is slightly heavier. The weight is just right for the easy lift (the tailgate just lays flat). It is so close that when I remove the cover that is installed on the instiled of the tailgate, the tailgate will actually not lay flat, as the torsion bar lifts it about 2".
Anyway, want to post my feedback on this product. Oh, BTW, if you are interested in getting one, the best price I found was here:
http://www.truckcustomizers.com/products/K5HOPTB.1.html
They have it for $22.31 +$5.99 shipping. Got it in two days.
Ken
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