Bed build cont.
Pic 1, Lets fill that gap between the top of the tailgate and the top of the bed rails, and enclose the ends of the rails at the same time.
Pic 2, The left side. While I built this, I also capped the top of the stake pocket and added a 3/8" hole with a nut welded on that I can screw a 3/8" eye hook into to tie stuff in the bed. Also, the the back ground you can see the painted tail light panel, more pictures of that later.
Pic 3, The outside view. The extended piece at the top with the hole in it is what I'm using right now to hold the tailgate closed. There is a matching hole in the tailgate flange and I have a 3/8" spring hook the passes through both holes to keep the gate closed. I haven't made the decision on the final method to hold the gate closed at this point.
Pic 4, The right side piece.