BUYER BEWARE: 3rd Gen Plug-N-Play Tailgate Bolt-N-Lock & Tailgate Bolt-N-Open

I just got my package out of the mailbox. Just need to start doing it. Any advice from the people that have done it? Is it hard or just time consumming.
The instructions are great but when i have to drill into the truck i get scared

 

Ok I just finished a successful install!

So it took me three hours. The reason is that the metal bar that connects the actuator to the lock had to be rebent and then it snapped. I tried soldering the extra metal from when I cut it with limited success....

However, it worked out fine and I taped the crap out of it as well.

As far as tips go I’ll start from the beginning.

1. Get all your tools ready to include zip ties and electrical tape.
2. Instructions are very good so follow them.
3. The actuator install is pretty easy but I had to uninstall/reinstall a few times so be sure to not overtighten or strip the plastic holes where the screws go.
4. Getting the top of the actuator is hard to do, it will take a bunch of force to take it off and put it back on.
5. One reason for one of my actuator removals was due to trying to get that top back on. I found it easier to simply undo the mounting screws carefully to snap that piece back on.
6. The plastic camera plugs on the tailgate and bed are a pita to reinstall. I ended up using a large flat head screwdriver for a little more leverage. This step took me about 45min alone but it is 40 degrees in the garage so on a warmer day this should go faster. No need for any drilling and the 8” wire loom was a nice touch!
7. Routing the wires is straight forward just feel along the frame and you should be good to go.
8. Do yourself a favor and wrap the end that goes into the passenger side so that sand/grit does not enter the connectors. It also makes it a little easier to run as the wires won’t separate.

The harness itself is amazing! Worth the price of admission alone!

Great job on he instructions and pictures... once you get the cover off the tailgate they make way more sense...at least they did to me.

Biggest piece of advice is be careful with that metal bar!

You can do it!!!

Thanks Katie!

 

This!!!

@Oscar I

Thanks for the install instructions as well!! You and Katie ROCK!!!

 

Does it matter where you put the actuator or is it as long as it is straight?

 

Also how do you remove the black top from the actuator?

 

There is a slot on one of the sides. I extended the actuator and then used one hand as leverage so it wouldn’t bend then used a bit of force to move away from the gap if that makes sense.


It takes a bit to get it off.

 

Not sure but the way the plastic piece moves when you pull the tailgate handle I think front to back on the truck works and that is what the instructions show.

Also make your holes in the recessed areas...again see the instructions...

 

Bubble bursting happening here...got my package today, can lock & unlock my tailgate via fob/smart door handle tonight.

Thanks @KTJO 4x4 your work was appreciated.

 

Well i finished it. Thanks for all the help. And yes drill holes in the slots. Just FTDI follow the damn instructions and youll be fine. Other that that super easy process.

 

Yeah, just sitting and trying to get the top of the actuator off is seeming not possible to me, without busting the whole thing.
I'll try to find another way to assemble the whole thing once I start to.

 

Zapped you a PM the actuator top is a PITA but it won’t break!

 

Gimme a buzz and I’ll walk you thru it!

 

Now just have to wait for @mesojdm key fob.

 

Reeeeeal dumb question but want to be sure: the full kit is the harness and the actual pop n lock right? Everything you need to complete the mod? All for $65?

 

Yes, but it is not the Pop and Lock that is for sale elsewhere.

This is, IMO, a more professional wiring solution.

 

That’s why I’m interested. I like cleaner wiring. Just want to be sure I understand what I’m buying

 

Is anyone planning on adding any kind of sound dampener or padding to help reduce the actuator sound? Any tips?

(Not that I think it’s especially loud, but I’d rather it be as quiet as possible)

 

Nope!

I posted a video from LLOD and to be honest, his sounded louder than mine.

It is no louder than the rest of the locks and to be honest, I want it to make a sound!

I want to know when it engages/disengages.....

If you have your truck setup to ONLY open the driver door, you will have to push the unlock twice.

I love this setup from the passenger door solution @KTJO 4x4 set up.

Sometimes I toss expensive gear in the back and simply don’t want “that guy” doing a snatch and grab.

 

Pretty much an easy install the ONLY thing with @KTJO 4x4 kit is you have to drill two small holes to mount the actuator. That is simple and easy.

Read the thread and if you have questions let me know. I had zero issues drilling the holes and mounting.

 

I rubber mounted mine to keep it quieter. It makes it sound very solid too. Not so tinny.

Check this post in this thread:

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads...g-n-play-harness.592685/page-28#post-20004976