Saved my tailgate from getting stolen using a $8.40 part!!!

Both sides are like this.

 

Saves miles on Taco running to store!
I'd rather cruise the Taco than run errands

 

What size washer do I need?

 

I would take the bolt out, go to hardware store and look for one with the biggest center hole, you also need a spacer that will go inside that washer, that is just a tad thicker than the washer. So when you tighten the bolt, it snugs up against the spacer but does not pinch the washer. Clear as mud?

The guy behind the counter at ace pulled out those trays of nuts and washers and found exactly what would work from what I said above.

 

Awesome thank you

 

The outside diameter of the washer I used is 1”. I just measured it.

 

Thanks

 

Some good advice here. Need to go out and make mine a bit more secure this weekend now.

 

Yeah do it now cause if you wake up Monday morning to go to work and see your tailgate gone your gonna be pissed...LoL

 

Glad it wasn’t stolen.

But, if they really wanted it they could just unbolt it from the hinge on the side torx bolts and the hex bolt.

 

True.. Hell If they want the whole truck they can steal the whole thing as well. But I'm going to at least lock the doors and not make it any easier for them.

 

Yep, But I don’t think most crooks carry torx bits and tools with them. But like you said if they really want it,they will get it.

 

Well I know a lot of parts get stolen especially on these Toyota and import cars and trucks where OEM parts are expensive.

I'm sure there's a lot of thieves that have a whole set of tools even power tools since so many catalytic converters get stolen, they just cut it off.

There's also tons of reports of owners getting their wheels stolen even with the wheel locks, so you're never safe. If you can, park it inside, garage, etc. I've got a couple friends that rent a cheap oversized garage and park their truck (2nd vehicle) in and wrench when they want.

 

nice thanks for the idea man

 

Thanks OP. Just ordered one. $5.53 after tax

 

Guys just now learning this trick need to start reading the Frugal Mods thread, stat! Lot's of good ideas there.

 

True, but isn't the whole idea there to really just slow the thief down by not making it come off in like 2 seconds?

 

Yes but if they know that they’re doing I’m sure they’ll have the needed tools.

This looks like a good solution, too but expensive.

https://sabellco.com/store/index.php?route=product/product&manufacturer_id=11&product_id=68

 

https://www.realtruck.com/pop-lock-gate-defender/R184719P2015Y608MA.html

anybody tried this one ?