I just did my tailgate. I used LMC parts. I replaced the tailgate handle (part 38-6622), the latch rods (38-6633), and the left and right latch assemblies (30-1546 and 30-1547). Once the latch assemblies and tailgate handle are roughly in place inside the tailgate, the next step is to insert the latch rods into the handle assembly, as
@HotRodPC aptly described: this is the part where you have to hold your mouth just right with patience to insert the rods into the handle cam holes. He says do the left side first (I think because it is less accessible). The right side is harder to do, because the left side is in already. I found that both rods must extend as far to the center of the tailgate as possible, to allow for insertion into the cam holes. What I wanted to point out is that pushing the latch into the latch assembly as far as possible will help achieve this. Use a large screwdriver and jam the latches in (toward the center of the tailgate). This causes the rod to extend closer to the center, and closer to their final resting spot in the cam, thus making it easier to insert the rod into the cam. Now you can unclench. I did, and I feel better now.
But the latches don't engage worth crap, I think because my box sides are wobbly and slightly misaligned. Comes from abusing the box by loading large logs. I think I have bolt problems underneath the box, and if I can solve that, I will add to this post.