Tailgate question

I have an 05 and after moving a few people this past week my tailgate has seen better days. does anyone know if toyota strengthened/changed the design to make them stronger? If so what year did they change it? Thanks for any info

 

Check out post #24.

http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/technical-chat/4838-cheap-free-mods-2.html#post45520

 

I have seen the "fix" for them but not really answering my question. My tailgate has a dent where every support piece is located from inside. I am going to be buying a new one and was wondering if they changed the design at all during the last 7 years to make it stronger so I make sure to buy that year or later. I will do the mod if they are all the same to the new one but I was hoping toyota changed the design at some point along the way. Thank you

 

If whistling windshields and the weak ass leafs still coming on the trucks is any indication, I am betting the answer is no, they haven't done a damn thing to strengthen tailgates either.

 

Your windshield whistles? Damn. Well I was hoping they pulled their head out.

 

I have only heard mine make noise once while on frwy with 35mph crosswinds after a front came thru. The noise stopped when at posted speed limits. Have seen several posts recently about noisy windshields on newer stuff.

 

Well I am happy mine doesn't whistle. that sucks. At least that's one thing I don't have to fix. Lol

 

They changed it sometime in 08. so if you find an 09+ tailgate that is original to the truck you should be good.

 

Do you know what they changed by any chance?

 

no i dont.

 

Toyota added a few ribs inside I believe. Details in the TSB:
BO018-07 NOV 07 Body - Bent Rear Tailgate
Download here: http://www.divshare.com/download/4099360-b3f

Whether the redesigned tailgate is strong enough is hard to say. If you foresee a lot of use/abuse, replace the plastic tailgate liner with a sheet of steel. Either make one yourself or buy from one of the vendors on TW.

 

BTW, have you looked at pricing for a replacement tailgate? If you don't have a tonneau or cap, it may be better to buy a tiregate.

 

I just found out that the fix is some additional braces you can buy from the dealership. There is a drivers and passenger side they sell separately for $70 total. Ouch. So that means all of the gates are the same. I found one on craigslist that is in perfect condition, and same color. Will strengthen that one accordingly. Thanks guys.

I love what you do to me......toyota.