How I Protect My Tailgate From Theft

After reading through the tailgate theft threads, I decided that using a hose clamp just wasn't good enough for me. It will certainly help, but if someone with a screwdriver is determined, they can remove it quickly.

Another TW member, lowrange, came up with the idea of welding the tailgate mount then reattaching with the mounting screws. Here is a pic of his work:



My fix is essentially the same, but reversible. By adding a slice of steel pipe the only method of removal is by detaching the tailgate mount. This isn't done quickly with the mount in place. I painted the pipe red so it would be visible to any would-be thief, thereby announcing their inferiority.

 

Definitely gonna have a hard time stealing his tailgate haha

 

What is the diameter of the pipe you used?

 

Sorry, I was going to get measurements but I missed the chance. I'm out of town now. My recommendation is to take the bracket to the steel yard. The one I picked was nice and snug - I had to use a rubber mallet to get it on. If I had the time I'd have cut a bunch of them to send out to people.