Nissan 720 & D21 Hardbody Tailgate Panel: A Buyer's Guide to Fitment and Flaws
This guide covers the critical differences between 720 and D21 tail finish panels, what to inspect on a used part, and how to handle the notoriously fragile mounting clips.
- Crucially, you must distinguish between the 1985-86 720 and 1986.5-97 D21 Hardbody models; their tail finish panels are not interchangeable.
- When buying a used panel, the condition of the rear mounting tabs is more important than cosmetic fading. Broken tabs will prevent a secure fit.
- For D21 Hardbody models, be aware that one of the four required metal retainer clips (90827-01G00) is discontinued, so try to salvage your originals.
- For 1985-86 720 models, verify whether you need the chrome or black finish to match your truck's original trim package.
Is Your Truck a 720 or a D21 Hardbody? It's Critical to Know.
Before you begin your search, you must identify which Nissan truck you own. The tail finish panels for the 720 and D21 Hardbody are not interchangeable. They have different shapes, mounting points, and part numbers.
- 1985-1986 Nissan 720: This is the earlier, boxier body style. These panels are often chrome or black plastic and are specific to these model years.
- 1986.5-1997 Nissan D21 "Hardbody": This is the more modern, slightly more rounded body style introduced mid-1986. These panels are typically a textured or smooth black or gray plastic.
Warning: A panel from a 720 will not fit a D21 Hardbody, and vice-versa. Always confirm the donor vehicle's model and year before purchasing a used part.
Symptoms of a Failing Tail Finish Panel
Failure of this part is always visual and structural. You won't see any warning lights or receive diagnostic codes. Look for:
- Cracks and Fractures: Decades of UV exposure make the original plastic extremely brittle. Cracks often start near the mounting holes and can spread across the panel.
- Fading and Discoloration: The black or gray plastic fades to a light gray or chalky white, creating a worn appearance.
- Broken Mounting Tabs: The most critical failure. The plastic tabs on the back of the panel that secure it to the tailgate often snap off, causing the panel to become loose, rattle, or even fall off.
- Peeling or Pitted Chrome (720 Models): On 720 trucks with the chrome trim package, the chrome layer can delaminate, bubble, or develop pits from moisture and age.
Buying a Used Tail Finish Panel: What to Check
Since Nissan has discontinued new OEM panels for these trucks, the used market is your primary source. A thorough inspection is key to getting a good part.
Step 1: Physical Inspection
When holding the part, carefully check the following:
- Mounting Points: Flip the panel over. This is the most important area. Check that every screw boss and clip retainer tab is present and free of cracks. A panel with broken tabs will never sit securely.
- Structural Cracks: Flex the panel slightly. Look for hairline cracks, especially around the edges and lettering. A panel with minor surface fading can be restored, but a cracked one is permanently damaged.
- Finish Condition: For 720 models, check the chrome for any signs of peeling or deep pitting. For D21 models, assess the level of fading. Heavy chalking may be difficult to restore perfectly.
Step 2: Verify Compatibility for Your Model
- For 1986.5-1997 D21 Hardbody: The main panel (90810-01G00) was used on Standard and King Cab models. The biggest issue is the clips. There are four metal retainer clips. Three are part number 90826-01G00, but the fourth, 90827-01G00, is different and is no longer available from Nissan. Ensure the used panel you buy either includes all four clips or that you can carefully transfer your old ones.
- For 1985-1986 Nissan 720: You must match the finish to your truck's trim package. Part number 93480-80W00 was used on ST models. Some trucks used a chrome panel, while others used black. Also, note that part 93480-80W01 was for 4WD models but is reported to physically fit 2WD tailgates.
Pro Tip: A faded but structurally sound OEM panel is often a better choice than a new, cheap aftermarket part. Used OEM parts are made from higher-quality molds and materials, ensuring a perfect fit that aftermarket parts often fail to replicate.
Installation Overview
- Difficulty: 1.5 out of 5
- Time: 30-45 minutes
- Tools Needed: Phillips screwdriver, 10mm socket or wrench, plastic trim removal tool.
The replacement process is simple and very DIY-friendly.
- Open the tailgate. Remove the screws holding the inner access cover (the metal panel on the inside of the tailgate).
- With the cover removed, you will see the back of the finish panel and the nuts or clips that secure it.
- Carefully unthread the nuts or use a trim tool to release the clips. The old plastic will be brittle, so work slowly to avoid breaking more parts.
- Once all fasteners are removed, the old panel should lift off the tailgate.
- Clean the tailgate surface before installing the new panel.
- Position the new panel and secure it with its clips or nuts. Do not overtighten.
- Reinstall the inner access cover.
Cost of Replacement
Labor costs at a professional shop will be minimal, typically 0.5 to 1 hour of labor.
| Part Source | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM | Discontinued |
| New Aftermarket | $50 - $120 (if available) |
| Used OEM | $75 - $350 (depending on condition and rarity) |
| Shop Labor | $60 - $150 |
Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
There are no official recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Nissan specifically for the tail finish panel on 1985-1997 Pickups. The primary known issue is the age-related brittleness of the plastic, which is not considered a safety defect. The mounting clips for the D21 model are a well-known weak point, with one of the four clips being discontinued by Nissan, complicating replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I just paint a faded tail finish panel?
Yes. If your panel is structurally intact but faded, you can restore it. Use a plastic surface cleaner and prep solution, followed by several light coats of a quality trim and bumper paint designed for automotive plastics. This is a cost-effective way to improve your truck's appearance.
Will a panel from a Nissan Pathfinder fit my Hardbody pickup?
No. While the D21 Pathfinder shares some front-end components with the Hardbody pickup, the tailgate and its related trim parts are different and are not interchangeable.
What do I do if I break the D21 retainer clips during removal?
The three common clips (90826-01G00) may still be available from Nissan dealers or online parts suppliers. The fourth, unique clip (90827-01G00) is no longer available new. If this clip breaks, your options are to find a used one, attempt to repair the old one with a strong epoxy, or try to modify one of the other clips to fit, though this may not be successful.
Is the "NISSAN" lettering a separate piece?
No, on both the 720 and D21 models, the lettering is molded into the finish panel itself. It is not a separate emblem that can be removed or replaced independently.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 90810-01G00 9081001G00 93480-80W00 9348080W00 93480-80W01 90826-01G00 90827-01G00
Material: Primarily ABS Plastic, some versions with chrome plating. Mounting: Secured with a combination of nuts and metal clips.
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Nissan Pickup:
- Is Your Truck a 720 or a D21 Hardbody? It's Critical to Know.
- Symptoms of a Failing Tail Finish Panel
- Buying a Used Tail Finish Panel: What to Check
- Step 1: Physical Inspection
- Step 2: Verify Compatibility for Your Model
- Installation Overview
- Cost of Replacement
- Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 🎟️ Get 5% Off