Searched the forums and google but didn't find a definitive answer. I bet you experts out there know this one off the top of your head:
What year tailgates will work on the 1997 F350?

 

There's one on CL but doesn't list the year. I emailed the poster.

Ford Tail Gate

 

I would bet 1992-1997 F250 and F350 tailgates would all work. Not sure about the F150 gates between 1992-1996.

 

Thanks for the reply, but "I bet it would work" and "Not sure" sounds to me like you don't know what the heck you're talking about. Just sayin.

Anybody out there know for sure?

 

I know for sure that a 92 will fit a 96 because i just bought one.

 

Update: the tailgate on CL is from a 2002 F350 super duty.

Will that fit on my 1997 F350 without any modification, and will it "look right"?

 

'87 to '96 F150s and '87-'97 F250 and F350 tailgates will fit. If you want a smooth tailgate, don't get one with the wide aluminum panel across the back. When you take that off, there are several holes in the tailgate.

 

You can go back as far as the 7th generation trucks (80-86) and the tailgates will interchange with the 87-91 & 92-97 body style.

incorrect.
86 and older tailgates used a different latch than the bolt style on the 87 and newer gates.
87 to 97 F-150, F-250 and F-350

 

Thanks, Bill and Rodney!

 

For a slip on and use tailgate go with the 87-97 years, as the 80-86 latches are different. The latches for the later years may fit on the 80-86, I've never tried to see.

 

incorrect.
86 and older tailgates used a different latch than the bolt style on the 87 and newer gates.
87 to 97 F-150, F-250 and F-350 is what you need

 

I appreciate a good solid definitive answer like that.

This also jibes with the other replies above.

I had read about various latch/cable/hinge differences but it was still very murky.

Thanks!

 

the 87 and newer uses cables.
like was mentioned, look for a solid panel gate. the XLT lariat gate has an aluminum panel on the back. the plastic center falls out and if you try to eliminate it you end up with 4-5 holes in the tailgate.