Awesome Tailgate Anti-theft device

I am too lazy or forgetful to take the key out to lock/unlock the tail gate every time.
The hose clamp is just too ugly and "cheap" looking, SaBellco is too expensive for me.
This "hook" was just right for me and I even spent a few bucks more to powder coat it, and installed OEM power lock.

I do remember the factory screw was a bit of pain to remove, you have to use the right Torx size, the wrong size can strip it out easily.

 

Yes, it makes no sense to use the wrong size torx bit to remove the bolt. You need to use a T40. I double checked with @christian06 before I attempted to remove the factory bolt!

 

The factory torx screw, as I remembered has a smaller head than the security Trox bit (T40) brought that from Christian.
e.g. If you used a T27 on T30 screw it will fit in but strip the head off.

 

The screw you buy from Christian is a T45, the factory bolt is a T40.

 

Yes, that is right.
I was trying to use a T35 bit or somthing smaller to remove factory screw and almost trip the head. Use the right bit!

 

That'll do it. hah

 

I was going to suggest an impact wrench... there's a tool for every job!

 

The factory screw is a T40
The safety screw is a T45
An impact driver does the job quite well, not a drill driver. The one you hit with a hammer works perfect, and you definitely will strip it out if you use the wrong size bit.

 

Kroil……..check
Soldering iron to heat the bolt……check
Impact driver from Harbor Freight……..check
T44 impact bits…….check
T45 security bit………check
Ratchets………check
Hammer………check
Patience……I’ll try to find some

OK, I’m placing my order…..

 

Forgot the screw extractor in case all else fails. Lol

 

Pro tip: when you get ready to remove that screw from the tailgate, take the tailgate off of your truck and stand it on it's end in the grass, with cardboard and a towel to protect it. This was easier for me to get some well placed whacks on the impact screwdriver focused directly into that screw.

 

Yes I will remove the tailgate, and take off the inner panel so I can apply heat to the end of the bolt. Thanks.

 

Please forgive my ignorance but I had no idea that having a tailgate stolen was that prevalent. Don’t anyone that has been a victim of this type of theft. But thieves are everywhere, I suppose. I guess we all have the risk of waking up and be missing a catalytic converter too. We live in a broken world. I have a factory locking tailgate, should I still get one of the products being discussed here ?

 

@bmg88201

I installed the OEM TailGate Lock first and then installed the SaBellCo (after trying unsuccessfully with the clamp).

Peace of mind is my goal. If for some reason, an attempt is made to take something off my truck, this will be a deterrent.

 

Looks like you got it covered, thx

 

Question, I was trying to remove the factory t40, but I stripped the head, tomorrow I'm going to a shop to weld a nut and remove that fricking screw. My question is when the anti-theft device is in place, how I'm going to torke the t45 screw? Because there's no space for the tool.

 

@christian06
Thanks for providing these Chris, just order one for my 3rd gen.

 

Awsome, thx for your support.

 

Take the ta

Take the tailgate off, you'll have better leverage

 

You can also just lift the tailgate a few inches after you install it. Should provide more then enough room to get a torque wrench on it.