Locked Tailgate Stolen?

Or- you could put a pop-n-lock type linear doorlock actuator inside the tailgate to one side so that it throws a deadbolt type pin into the side of the tailgate frame... it would be invisible from the outside yet it would keep the gate secure when you lock up the truck.

 

Read this thread and just wanted to add- doesn't sound like anyone has ever had to remove their tailgate to load something heavy - I have, since the tailgate can be damaged if too much weight is placed on it.

Fwiw

 

and how long before the lock ruins the paint from swinging back and forth?"

 

About as long as it takes to remove an unlocked tailgate!

 

I put a hose clamp on mine about 2 months ago, it would be very hard for someone to remove the tailgate with this on, very easy fix as opposed to spending more money on a tailgate hinge lock..imo

 

Nice find

 

I got myself one of these too. It was easy to install, looks good, and a solid lock. It gives me peace of mind. Great investment.

 

Best thing to do is put 2 stainless steel zip ties around the hinge, then put the hose clamp on top of that. Sure they can unscrew the hose clamp, but then they’re faced with the zip ties, and those are literally impossible to cut unless they have a saw blade. I tried removing them cause I needed to take my tailgate off, and it took me about 30 minutes cause I tighten the stainless steel ziptie so much that I couldn’t get anything under it to cut.

 

If you face it up could you unscrew it without opening the tailgate?

 

so if its locked, it can't be stolen right?

 

so if it's locked, it can't be stolen right?

 

Locking is the best deterrent provided you do not allow for sufficient time. Breaking the lock mechanism would reduce the value, would it not?
I do have a lock on my T/G.
With the hose clamp; could you not insert a screwdriver underneath and fairly easily break the hose clamp?
I would certainly take more time... but doable it seems from the pictures above.
Not knocking this solution - just observing.

 

Had a hose clamp on our 09 Tacoma never had it stolen.

on our new 21 we put the clamp on and installed the oem tailgate lock. The more of a headache you make it the more likely they are to move on.

 

How many thieves keep a screwdriver in their pocket... and want to hang around long enough to use it?

And usually in the dark of night?

 

Wouldn’t it be better to face the screw head up so it can only be accessed when the tailgate is open?

 

Why I keep it locked. Scumbags.

 

It's the only reason I installed the OEM locking kit, to prevent tailgate theft. I don't have a cap or tonneau either, the bed is wide open but it's comforting to know the tailgate locks when the doors are locked.

 

This thread has come back from being idle for a long time. I’ve since realized that with a standard screwdriver, you can easily just pry and break a hose clamp off in less than 10 seconds. Try it, and you’ll see what I mean.

If you don’t have a shell on your truck that also locks in the tailgate, I would definitely think about some of the more permanent solutions mentioned above rather than relying on a hose clamp.

I ended up going to Sabelco lock and washer route, Plus I also have a locking shell.

 

You’re correct. Hose clamp is nearly useless. I can slip it off with the twist of a screwdriver.

 

I'm putting the hose clamp on since I almost always forget to lock the tailgate.