Protecting the tailgate while driving when it’s lowered

having to haul dirtbikes in a short bed and was wondering if there was any way to protect the tailgate from rock chips when you need to put the tailgate down and drive long distances?

Probably a shot in the dark but figured it was worth asking

 

Clear bra is probably your best bet.

 

Definitely agree with the paint protection film and would say mud flaps as a mitigation step. The PPF would be sufficient though if you're covered edge to edge on the tailgate.

 

I asked about clear bra or wrap one time. Two places quoted me $4-700. No thanks.

Bigger mud flaps?

If you’ve got a tailgate mat for hauling mt bikes, that may work as well.

 

$500 buys a tailgate, and you’d be surprised what body and paintwork costs as a comparison.


Putting a bike pad upside down is an interesting idea, though. Haven’t seen it done but can’t see why it couldn’t be done and used quite effectively.

 

With my f150 I used a cut piece of a wool army blanket and stuck it to the tailgate with 5 strong neodymium magnets. Always held, no issues even when soaked with water. Cost me nothing and you can take it off.