How Strong is the Tailgate?

I asked this in an old thread in the Gen 2 (I didn't realize it was 2nd Gen post, until I posted it) but it's what came up when I inquired for "Re-enforced Tailgate"

I'm thinking of loading up a wrecked ST1300 into the back of my 2016 ShortBed and was wondering what others have done to make sure the tailgate doesn't buckle under the weight of a heavy motorcycle sitting on it? The bike will probably weight about 600 lbs, since it's missing a few parts.

I'm thinking 3/4" plywood into the bed, then make a piece that will fit over the tailgate too.

Any thoughts?

 

yes to the added plywood deck, if you are planning ahead for that much weight in the space of an mc tire footprint, it is a good plan.
strap it down or bolt it down so it won't slip.

 

Reminds me of this:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xMjxOD1lJq0

 

Make just one piece that will fit over the entire area carrying the weight... above appears like two separate wood pieces (not as effective in weight distribution).

 

I was thinking two pieces since I need to drive 500 miles up to go pick up the bike.

Maybe a 2x2 and add to the tailgate piece, and place between the tailgate and bed.

 

I believe the manual will tell all......

 

LOL, I think I have one of those Tonka Dump Trucks that my boys used to play with!

 

I wouldn't trust the manual on that!

 

Most weight will be on front even of a ST. Prob. 200#'s at most on rear tire. As long as cords are in good shape no worries.

 

I thought about having something like this made that would sit just a fraction of an inch above my tail gate. Then using a 8' piece of 3/4" plywood in the bed. There shouldn't be any weight on the tailgate then.

I wanted to haul my bike from FL to Cincinnati and back later this summer.

Then I thought about loading the bike...plywood would raise up during loading. Seeing how my bike is right at 8 foot long and weighing in close to 900 pounds...a trailer would be a lot better option.

 

Recommend you drive up with the tailgate down, using a single piece. The 2nd piece (on the tailgate only), will distribute weight across the tailgate however do nothing to relieve pressure on the cables as the weight would be the same (plus the wood). By using a single piece, some of the weight would be distributed to the main bed, and will reduce the load (static and bounce) applied to the tailgate.

 

Found this thread
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/tailgate-weight-capacity.569305/

Here is more, plus some good ideas
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/how-much-weight-can-our-tailgate-handle.504830/

 

I been reading about this because I needed this info. Most suggest removing the tail gate, some are using a sheet of plywood.
Myself I am removing mine if I must
I also bought a utility trailer for my quad,so you can go that way also. Mine has a drop down ramp and I paid 500 bucks for mine. If you have a hitch, this is your best bet. Look on Craig’s list, I see them all the time for sale, good luck

 

A trailer is the best way to go.

 

Rent a trailer if you do not have one, I would let you use mine

 

Heck, I've got one that I used to play wìth!

 

Okay, after reading the other thread posts and all, I guess my best bet would be to use my trailer. I just hate hauling it up 500 miles...

 

You'll be fine without it. I was really worried about loading up a GS into the truck, because I've seen how flimsy the supports inside the tailgate are, but
in the end, I didn't need to worry. The thing about that piece of plywood on the tailgate is that it can possibly go flying backwards if it's not secured properly.

 

Good for you, this way you have peace of mind and no regrets

 

You can do the chain support mod to relieve the tension on the cables.