Another instafan, Sabellco tailgate lock.

I know there is a thread that covers this:

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/3rd-gen-2016-tacoma-tailgate-lock.513023/

However, having used the pipe/hose clamp for the Tacos I’ve owned, this time around, I wasn’t feeling too confident with the 3rd Gen and the price of an OEM tailgate.

This morning, I was able to take off the clamp with a screwdriver, and Dremel in minutes. With there being battery powered dremels, I got on the sabellco train. Great thought and precision for what it is, went into your design @scleaf. The only problem I encountered was the plastic bushing protrusion piece that has to be broken off and the instructions that are floating around. A small curved needle nose plier will do the trick, so the user doesn’t have to take off the tailgate. It’s simple to break off, but to the first time user, it appears like it’s more than that. I tried looking for a picture, and forgot to take one, as the initial snap did not fully break it off and that’s the last thing I was thinking about.

Good luck to you with future instafans and thank you!!!!

 

Looks good and should be hard for a thief to break quickly.

 

Thanks for the nice post, hope it serves you well. Super cool knowing it will make a difference. I will review my install instructions for the tab. My brother said he used a flat screwdriver on his 2018 and tapped it off but I suggest pliers. I do not want to be responsible for scratches. haha

 

FYI, there should be a vinyl sticker to put over the key hole to keep dust out.

 

I work with 6061 on two piece heads. I know how hard it is to cut. Milling 6061 is not too bad, but cutting it (disc) is a different story. I feel safer overall. Totally recommend it.

 

There was no vinyl sticker. As for the instructions, yeah, a bit more clear. It ain’t bad or hard at all. I remember thinking, “I have to break what?” Honestly, no big deal in hindsight as far as the plastic tab. Awesome idea. Good luck with future stuff for our Tacos.

 

I used painters blue tape in layers to protect the area. It worked well. A Dremel with a cutting disc can get out of hand quick with climbing cuts.

 

Here are the instructions:
https://sabellco.com/store/index.php?route=information/information&information_id=9

I updated and added the sticker. I always open to suggestions and improvements. I don't own a 2016+ but I know it is a huge problem and wanted to make sure the 3rd Generation owners had a quality lock. This was my idea on the design, but it also needed to be easier then my 2nd Gen lock to install. I would have added a key to the 2nd Gen but there is not enough room in the hinge area or I have not thought of it yet.

Thanks again for the support and comments

 

Based on you profile picture I am taking your word on the Dremel. Looks like you are talking from experience.

 

A hahahaha. Yeah, I build competition hot saws. I enjoy cutting custom combustion chambers for stroked and bored piped Husqvarna 3120’s. I love to compete also. Several loggers jamborees up north. No big deal on the sticker. I won’t be taking off the tailgate. And I like how the red pops and one can see the barrel lock just by peaking into the bed.

Well thank you for imagining this product. Kick ass. I plan on letting it go with the future owner and buying another for the new Taco. Trying to spread peace of mind and your product fits the bill, fills the shoes, etc.

 

I've had my Sabellco for a few months now and I was concerned about water/dirt going into the keyhole but so far it's been clean. This lock is badass

 

Those are killer saws, I could not imagine they need more Horse Power but time is important in the competitions so I get it....

 

Who makes those bed stiffeners? They look like good quality.

 

I took first place last summer in an open Gas competition by .11 so yes, many variables, but it comes down to time.

The second place operator is bad ass and has won many times. So I was stoked to say the least buzzing such a close race against him.

 

Back on topic for me, great product as I was skeptical but willing. Glad I did it. The security totally crushed my worries. Thank you and good luck

 

Total Chaos stiffeners

 

I like the sticker idea. I just made one for mine with a scrap of xpel using a dime as a template. It's invisible, so I hope I remember it's there if I ever take off my tailgate.

 

I just started including a sticker in the new orders, found some 6 year vinyl but it should last longer being that area does not get much sun.

 

Count me as another satisfied fan of the lock.

The great thing about it is that you can securely leave your tailgate down while carrying long pieces of wood that I’m not worried about being stolen.

The fit is perfect as it easily slides into place, and I think it needs no changes.

I did notice that it does move around just slightly while in place, so I decided to place a thin bead of silicone caulk on the top edge of the tailgate hinge and also applied a thin layer of silicone on the mating surfaces of both the hinge and lock to isolate the lock from the paint on the hinge.

I let silicone dry first and then slid the lock on and firmly into place. It’s nice and snug and I figured it would now have no chance of slowly rubbing through the paint by vibration and movement over the years.

 

Any chance prior customers are able to get that vinyl sticker if we send you a DM?