Early Van-late tailgate ?

[annette88]

Hope I've posted in the right place !
Have a 1981 westfalia with the early stick out tailgate lock. Have bought a replacement tailgate which must be the later type as it has the larger flush lock hole, Is the only difference the lock ? if we get a new late lock will it fit the locking bracket on the van body ?
Would appreciate any help if you have an early van and have replaced tailgate
many thanks
Annette

[T25-GTi]

Yes it will fit, the only problem you will have is, as you say the lock?
I changed the tailgate on another van from early to late, fitted the early lock to the late tailgate and just sealed the gap in the larger hole, job done.