I loosened the strikers and moved them in on both sides. Helped a little. Fairly close on RH side but almost 1/4" out on LH side. Any ideas?



Also, it seems kinda loose at the pivot points. Is there maybe a plastic bushing the goes in the hole that I'm not aware of? Red arrow...…..

 

I do believe there are bushings for the pivot points on the tailgate.

Are the latches on the tailgate itself adjustable??

 

It's been a while since I've had a Dakota but I believe the upper catch is adjustable also. It's basically a big round bolt that the upper latch catches on.

 

No, the latches are not adjustable.
Are those bushings available from the dealer or is it a specialty market piece?

 

I think you can get them from just about any parts store..... call around and ask.

 

No, the latches don't have much adjustment. The catches they grab are though. If you look, there's a place for a Torx or Allen head wrench.




It's above the tail gate strap.