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Secret to remove tailgate hinge bolt

Discussion in '2nd Gen. Tacomas (2005-2015)' started by tenui, Mar 3, 2012.

  1. Mar 3, 2012 at 6:00 PM
    #1
    tenui

    tenui [OP] Well-Known Member

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    I ordered one of the GateKeeper hinge covers for a 2011 Tacoma. Is there any secret to getting the one torq hinge bolt off? Its painted over. I tried with a pretty heavy duty torq nut but it keeps slipping off. Is there a secret to getting this bolt broken free?

    Thanks in advance!

    -john
     
  2. Mar 3, 2012 at 6:12 PM
    #2
    KenLyns

    KenLyns 8.75" Third Member

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  3. Mar 3, 2012 at 6:28 PM
    #3
    tenui

    tenui [OP] Well-Known Member

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    I thought painted on was bad...It being welded on would suck! I figured the chances of someone having a screw driver would be more likely vs a hex wrench. I was also considering putting in a center post security nut. I totally understand that if someone wants it bad enough... But, I live near a city and really am just avoiding the kids playing "let's hide the tailgate" game.... I know a hose clamp is a lot cheaper but for $25, I'm much happier with the end result. That is, if I can get this bolt off... :)
     
  4. Mar 3, 2012 at 6:30 PM
    #4
    KenLyns

    KenLyns 8.75" Third Member

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    The hose clamp has a plastic key that can be pulled off, leaving a square stub.
     
  5. Mar 3, 2012 at 9:01 PM
    #5
    Rich91710

    Rich91710 Well-Known Member

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    And a 12-point socket will line up perfectly ;)
     
  6. Mar 4, 2012 at 5:27 AM
    #6
    tpr676

    tpr676 Well-Known Member

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    Gate keeper will not tell you that it's tacked, I tried and striped the torx so I ended up eating it. Bought a master lock tailgate lock.
     
  7. Mar 4, 2012 at 6:05 AM
    #7
    PSJ

    PSJ Prerunners Work

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    SS Hose clamp with head facing down when tailgate is open. You have to lay on the ground and have a long shaft screw driver to loosen it up. Although overkill perhaps since the clamp remains in place after being tightened, I placed some heat shrink on the clamp to avoid any paint scratches. ;)
     
  8. Mar 4, 2012 at 10:26 AM
    #8
    KenLyns

    KenLyns 8.75" Third Member

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    Of course, all this is moot if you have a Pop-N-Lock. :)
     
  9. Mar 5, 2012 at 6:12 AM
    #9
    tenui

    tenui [OP] Well-Known Member

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    I have no need for the Pop-N-Lock.

    I have the integrated camera and also don't want an extra key just for the tailgate. I'm not looking for secure stowage. I just don't want my tailgate to walk away. I'm fine with the hose clamp I guess. Its a hack but should serve my purpose.

    Does anyone have any clarification on where the tack is? Is it tacked on the inside? Can it be cut? I'm just not convinced its welded. What's the point of the extra labor/parts to bolt the hinges on if they are just going to weld the bracket on? And, why weld it if they are going to bolt them on with heavy duty torq bolts with locking washers?

    If it truly is welded and the GateKeeper doesn't work for '09+ Tacomas, I'll update the Sticky thread so the next guy doesn't waste $30. (or is it there and I missed it???)
     
  10. Mar 5, 2012 at 6:39 AM
    #10
    aznutx

    aznutx Well-Known Member

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    +1

    pop n lock is pretty awesome, say what you want about that extra key but imo it's worth it, i also have it coupled with a bully, and the washer mod
     

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