Tailgate Cables

I've read through posts with similar problems but haven't found an answer so here goes:

My 06 tacoma tailgate sags about 1/2" lower than it should. I replaced with new cables, same problem. I also tried the cables mentioned for a Tundra which are supposed to be shorter, but they were actually a bit longer.
Is there a good solution? Thanks

 

I'm confused how it's sagging because there's not much to this system. Fixed mounting points on the tailgate and the truck, and a cable to connect them. If new cables didn't solve it, it sounds like something else is fucky. Bent tailgate perhaps? Pictures always help.

 

Lol, yeah I know. Its stupid simple.
I just don't see a bend in the tailgate and mount points look good.

 

Can you post a picture? The reason I ask is because mine does too and I kind of just assumed they came from the factory that way Maybe so if you're hauling something long enough to require you to have the tailgate down, it'll keep from putting a bunch of excess load on your cables.

 

Best Example I can find.

 

Yup, that's exactly now mine looks. I'm willing to bet all 2nd gen's are like that, within a tolerance of course.

 

Mine seems really loose at the hinge point, I figured it’s worn out but maybe it’s “normal”. I don’t like stepping onto the tailgate cause it feels a bit flimsy.

 

My very first post on Tacomaworld back in 2017:

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/adjustable-tailgate-cables-on-the-cheap.477171/

 

My tailgate looks the same. Idk why but idc

 

Mine doesn't do that at all. Weird. Maybe you could shorten the cable a bit?

 

It sounds like the plastic doodads are missing from the hinges.

 

How best to do that without comprising strength?

 

I would rather invest in a tailgate reinforcement plate than worry about the cables. The chance of bending the OEM tailgate is much greater than failing cables.

 

Thanks, I was wondering about reinforcement. What is the consensus on the best option?

 

This is the strongest because it's all one piece.

https://www.relentlessfabrication.com/collections/toyota/products/05-tacoma-tail-gate-reinforcement

 

Plastic doodad.

 

Mobtown's is much cheaper than relentless is and comes powder coated standard for $125. I think shipping to be was only $16 too.

edit: I did not realize the relentless one was all one piece connecting to the tailgate cap too. That is a much more robust design so it's in a different league. You just need to decide on the amount of reinforcement you need. WHen you add in mobtowns reinforcement cap, then they are about the same price.

 

Sounds like 1 year later and still no real answer for you. I'm also having same issue on 2016 Tacoma where my snowmobile has caused the cables to stretch OR the bolts are bent a little, I can't tell. Either way, it now sits on top of my bike rack when installed when it had clearance before. I've searched EVERYWHERE for replacement cables for third gen Tacomas and they DO NOT exist. Maybe I should start a company making them?

 

I had to deal with a similar issue with my 05 due to the rear bumper sitting a little higher than stock. I picked up some 1/4" dyneema line (same thing as winch synthetic winch line) at West Marine, spliced some eyes in the ends at the length I wanted and it clears my bumper.

Check ebay for remnants and you can get a good deal. 1/8" would work too...the stuff is stronger than steel.

X-BULL Synthetic Winch Rope SK75 1/4" x 49‘ Dyneema with Black Protecing Sleeve for ATV UTV (Gray)

https://www.amazon.com/X-BULL-Dynee...632956734&sprefix=1/4"+dyneema,aps,215&sr=8-7

 

Thanks! What eyes did you use? I’ve been looking for something suitable. Can you send a pic?