Bed extender dummy question.

It has probably been asked before but I couldn't find the answer in the forum. I'm wondering if I can go on a 2 or 3 weeks expedition using the bed extender and with the tail gate lowered.

Does the tail gate lock down or something ? If I drive on bumpy roads isn't it going to bounce up and down and damage the hinges ?

 

You may add straps from the bed extender to the hitch to make sure the tailgate stays lowered.

 

Then I guess a swing out carrier like this instead of the tailgate wouldn't be a very good idea either.

http://www.tiregate.com/vt_series_0.shtml

 

the newer tacos have reinforced tgates. id have to ask how bumpy are we talking? if you need the extender to fit something in the bad, i would think it will hold the tailgate down. if not keep the extender towards the front and the gate closed.

 

stress cracks in the actual tailgate. that would be fine

 

Ive had my gen 1 tailgate and cargo rack out for almost 11 yrs. Your not gonna hurt anything.

 

I thought Oswego meant cracks on the truck, like near the hinges or something.

Here's the thing. I'm getting my Tacoma tomorrow, I plan on mounting my Roof-Top-Tent over the bed with a DeWalt rack. I will use the truck for overlanding, not extreme off road but there could be some bumps here and there when back roads are in bad shape. I will undoubtedly ride it at 50+ MPH on some gravel roads that can sometimes be a little rough.

Now I'm weighing my options to see if there's a way I can fit all my gear in the Tacoma and get rid of my M101 trailer on which I have the RTT for now. I was thinking that if I end up short less than 3 or 4 cubic feet, maybe I could use the bed extender to get the extra room.

But that means driving anywhere between 3000 and 6000 kilometers that way.

 

if there is weight on the tailgate, im sure itd be fine. i just wouldnt want to bounce the crap out of it while driving.