Kentrol Tailgate Hinge

Kentrol Tailgate Hinges: Stainless Steel Built for the Long Haul

When your Jeep's factory tailgate hinges start to corrode, seize, or sag under the weight of an oversized spare tire, the upgrade path is clear. Kentrol has been the benchmark for stainless steel Jeep hardware since 1980, and their tailgate hinges are one of the most direct expressions of everything that makes the brand stand out: premium materials, obsessive quality control, and hardware built to last a lifetime on and off the trail.

T-304 Stainless Steel, Not Just "Stainless"

Kentrol introduced the idea of stainless steel accessories for Jeep vehicles in 1980, setting the industry standard by manufacturing from T-304 stainless steel — a non-magnetic, rust-free material that can be highly polished to a mirror finish. That choice of material isn't cosmetic window dressing. Kentrol begins with mirror-finish 304 stainless steel sheets and tubing, then uses proprietary tooling and engineered drawings to stamp, drill, machine, weld, and polish each piece to the finest fit and finish possible — and uses thicker raw materials compared to the competition, always including high-quality stainless steel mounting hardware.

Direct-Fit Coverage for Every Wrangler Generation

Kentrol's tailgate hinge lineup covers decades of Jeep history. Their hinge sets are engineered for specific platforms — for example, the TJ (1997–2006) is served by a set crafted from T-304 stainless steel. The JK and Unlimited JKU (2007–2018) receive their own dedicated tailgate hinge pair, also crafted from T-304 stainless steel. Coverage extends to the modern Wrangler JL, with hinges designed to provide superior strength, durability, and corrosion resistance compared to factory hinges. Even classic CJ owners aren't left out — Kentrol offers a polished stainless steel tailgate hinge set for 1976–1986 Jeep CJ7 models, backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

Finish Options & Heavy-Duty Performance

Kentrol tailgate hinges are available in two distinct finishes to match your build's aesthetic. You can choose between a rugged black powder coat or a sand-blasted raw stainless steel that is ready to paint. The black textured finish, in particular, is designed to resemble OE door handles and side mirrors for a factory-cohesive look. Regardless of finish, the structural story is the same: these hinges are built for heavy loads, supporting tailgates carrying oversized spare tires or gear. Each hinge is precision-machined to maintain smooth operation of the tailgate, ensuring it opens and closes properly while supporting added stress from spare tires and accessories.

Salt Spray Tested & Lifetime Warranty Backed

Kentrol doesn't simply claim corrosion resistance — they validate it. Kentrol stainless accessories are salt spray tested, which helps determine any material flaws during production, assuring the finest fit and finish possible. All products are fully inspected for fit, finish, and hardware, and come with a limited lifetime warranty. Installation is engineered as a direct replacement, requiring no modifications for a hassle-free upgrade. Each set ships complete with all hardware needed for installation, so there are no surprise trips to the hardware store.

Whether you're restoring a classic CJ, refreshing a high-mileage TJ, or reinforcing a trail-built JL for serious off-road duty, Kentrol's tailgate hinges deliver a meaningful, lasting upgrade over factory components. Browse the full Tailgate Hinge category or explore the complete Kentrol brand lineup to see what else the brand offers for your rig.