Tailgate Theft Protection for 1st Gen Tacomas

Hey all,

I was reading through the tailgate lock thread for the second generation Tacomas and wanted to do it to my 2004. Unfortunately, they aren't quite the same tailgate. Is anyone out there using some sort of anti-theft device/setup on the tailgate of their first gen? I usually have a truck shell over the top that latches and locks, but it isn't very sturdy. Any advice or information would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Ryan

 

I don’t think you need it, takes a bit more time to get off than a second gen.


But that’s my opinion.

 

That's good to hear. Just wondering if anyone has some quick and easy projects for some additional insurance. Thanks for the response!

 

im almost positive there isnt a latch like 2nd and 3rd gens where you can lift one side and pull the tailgate. pretty much all new trucks are like that, you can just use a hose clamp. but my first gen its bolted on both sides, unless dudes are carrying around socket wrenches

 

1st Gen tailgates are a lot more difficult to remove. There’s hex bolts and other fasteners like the straps that need to be removed. Definitely not a 30 second robbery like it is on the newer gens.

 

Maybe one of these would help?
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Tailoc-Tai...04-V6-V8-4x4-2wd-Tail-Gate-Truck/254257528777

 

I bought a pre-fabd cable from Home Depot (loops assembled). I took off the rear access panel and looped the cable through the tailgate holes and bed holes and around the body frame. The loops ended beneath the access panel and I put a lock on the loops. Bolted the access panel back up. The only issue is protecting the holes from rubbing against the cable when using the tailgate. I put duct tape at the hole and on the cable. Tape the cable before putting inside the holes? I have a locking shell too. Gives me some peace of mind.

 

I use a Pop 'n' Lock and rust

 

That's no exaggeration either. Some poor guy had his tailgate ripped off in seconds at the parking lot of my work. I'd have to watch the video again but certainly less than 30 seconds.

 

On 1st gens the tailgate is bolted in on both sides. You need a ratchet, socket and extension to loosen them. They don't just pop off with no tools like the newer inferior generations. Yet another 2nd/3rd gen "mod" that's a standard feature on 1st gens, like the gas cap holder in the fuel door, grab handles in the cab and functional mud flaps that actually flap over obstacles instead of breaking.