Options for tailgate replacement.

So, my tailgate is bowed in the middle..typical. I have been looking into replacement options as I'm worried that the camper shell that I bought won't fit due to the bowing. The junk yard ones range from $200-$400. I've had no luck searching craigslist, FB marketplace, etc for a color matched one. I've even looked into aftermarket swingout/tire carrier tailgates and there aren't really many options. I came across this on ebay and I was wondering if anyone has ordered from this company before. I would eventually get a Relentless Off-road reinforcement plate.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Painted-1C...23201088382?fits=Model:Tacoma&epid=8020620361

Another option is the Rock Auto one for $50, paint myself, and add the reinforcement plate, but a lot of people seem to say to stay away from Rock Auto.

 

I know I paid about $250 to have mine repainted. If that helps any.

 

And for $356.49 I could have the ebay tailgate with the Relentless reinforcement. Or I could spend $55 on the rock auto one and paint it with some color match paint I have laying around...I just dont know if I trust my painting skills

 

Tailgate Painted 1C8 Lunar Mist Metallic TO1900106 FOR 1995-2004 TOYOTA TACOMA STANDARD BED

Tailgate Painted 1C8 Lunar Mist Metallic TO1900106 FOR 1995-2004 TOYOTA TACOMA STANDARD BED

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07B91RG5W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_9M-NDbV26APCM

This one looks similar on Amazon. The only complaints in the reviews seem to be dents due to poor packaging.

 

I would actually say the exact opposite. Rockauto *at least* specializes in auto parts. Ebay, like Amazon is just a marketplace that sells you other people's stuff. They couldn't care less if you get the right part. It's cheaper and easier for them to just give your money back and have you go away, rather that go through the leg work to ensure you get the right part. That onus is on the seller.

I consider myself lucky that I got my timing belt stuff from Ebay, but it was extensively researched and there were MANY TW members who vouched for the seller. Even with that, I was still hesitant to go for it.

Worst case is you get the rockauto one, and if the hardware is crap, swap out your originals.

 

Looks like the exact same seller. Seems like it would be cheaper on eBay.

 

With a 2.5 star rating.

I've gotten screwed by sellers with 4.5+ ratings.

Hard pass.

 

True. The absolute cheapest option would be for me to get the rock auto one and paint it myself. It may look like ass, but it'll be cheap

 

That's why you cover it up with a swing away tire carrier. No one will ever notice! lol

Tailgates should be relatively easy to paint. They're small, and not a lot of curves. Just get one of those spray guns from Harbor freight and some duplicolor and you're all good in the hood, er, tailgate...

 

I believe I have the duplicolor self spraying cans. Need to get some 2k clearcoat

 

Yeah, rattle cans are harder to get a good clean/consistent coverage. Just do more light coats, rather than fewer heavy coats. Clearcoat is a must, too.

 

One of these will help, too: https://www.lowes.com/pd/Rust-Oleum-Comfort-Grip-Universal-Spray-Paint-Gun/3078199

 

I bought the Rockauto tailgate. The finish on the black primer they have is basically ready to paint. I cleaned it real well and primed right over it, only because I was priming the rest of the truck and feared a slight color mismatch if I didn't. If I was only painting the tailgate, I would have gone right over it.

Then base/clear with a $10 Harbor Freight HVLP gun and it looks great.

 

Try this place: Parts come painted. https://www.revemoto.com/