I bought some stainless steel tailgate straps to replace the GM Cables.
A local company is making these and they are available at http://www.dependable-straps.com

Tell him Joe from Truck Techniques sent you :D

They run about $48.00 per set.

http://michiganclassics.com/images/straps.jpg
http://michiganclassics.com/images/strap_installed.jpg
http://michiganclassics.com/images/hinge1.jpg
http://michiganclassics.com/images/hinge2.jpg

those look pretty cool. i might have to invest in a set.