It took so long because I am a cheapy-skate. Nobody and I mean nobody would have touched that tailgate. It was damaged so bad that anyone else would simply pick up the phone and order a aftermarket tailgate. Not me, noooooooooooo, not me. I have over a week of labor in that sucker. You'll never believe what has got me in a delay right now. Installed new heater core yesterday, need defrost hose. Figured I would run down to the hardware store or parts store and pick some up. Maybe even Home Depot. Nope, Nobody stocks that stuff anymore. I used to see it hanging on the walls of every parts store , back in the day. I even called the local Chevrolet dealer. The parts guy laughed at me, literally. So, got it ordered, but a week til delivery. Oh well, new wiper motor arrives today so I'll just keep on keeping on.