Best Tailgate reinforcement ideas

Yesterday while loading a 650lb tool chest into the Taco I noticed the plastic/fiberglass panel on the tailgate start to bow/bend/creak slightly. I also know how thin and hollow these tailgates are.

Where can I find a whole tailgate reenforcement "Kit" I would like to strengthen it with more than the few pieces of angle iron like ive seen some others do.. maybe a nice steel plate instead of the plastic panel and a few more braces here and there? or am I thinking too much?

 

Have you met our Lord & (tailgate) Savior, @Mobtown Offroad ?
https://mobtownoffroad.com/product/2016-2020-toyota-tacoma-tailgate-reinforcement-plate/

 

Nice! I like that! def going to be a contender!

 

The real question is, how did you unload it?

 

LMAO.. wasn't pretty... here's a snapshot of a rather lengthy and hilarious video. we basically used blocks of wood, towels, and a set of winter tires/wheels from our Audi.. I assume our techniques were similar to those who used by builders of stonehenge.

 

That shits fun. Making ramps and figuring it out. Glad u got it sorted!

 

you could just backed up real fast & hit the brakes

 

Then you can go get your bikes and make sweet jumps out of them!

 

Not gonna lie, if I was your neighbor, I would have come out with a beer and a folding chair. That looks like a disaster waiting to happen!

 

Damn that’s crazy, I’m surprised the plastic bed didn’t crack!

Looks like the ass was sagging pretty good.....main reason for avoiding those “leveling kits”.

 

Is that a mob town one?
When it’s wet I s it as slippery as the stock ice patch?

 

You think so? I bet that box is sub 400#. Looks unphased imo

 

It’s Mobtown but it’s metal. Really I got it to replace the top plastic piece since it wraps around

 

I've had one for about 6 months now. BIG improvement over stock. YUGE!

 

The truck isn't leveled. its a TRD Pro. But, thanks for the wise wise insight

 

Box was just over 650, but, I agree the truck didn't sag nearly as far as I thought.

 

Mobtown it is! Thanks all

 

Fuck that's heavy. I mean not for the truck, that box is deceiving I guess.

 

Yea, I wasn't expecting it to be that heavy either. not too sure where all the weight comes from lol