Tailgate Lock Defeated in 30s / Stolen

I like that! Heavy duty

 

Thanks all, for the comments.

Now knowing that the tailgate lock can be defeated in under a minute, I will be getting a SaBellCo lock as the first line of defense. This lock should filter out most bad guys' attempt. With my luck, I'll be matched up with a pro again. I'll have additional layers of security (along with avoiding high risk areas.)

Unfortunately, we live in a time when we have to spend more on security and hope that our number doesn't come up. Until a couple of years ago, a simple lock and hose clamp was enough. It was even enough to keep my stuff safe in my truck bed while traveling with a vinyl cover to keep them out of sight. I wouldn't even consider replacing my tonneau with another vinyl one. I have another tri-fold but it is aluminum. Aluminum is tasty metal for those scrap thieves to salivate over. This design is easy to steal but I like that I can remove it easily and have an open bed. Sometimes I need it covered to protect stuff but often times I need an open bed. I have some ideas on protecting my tonneau but I will keep it to myself because what I have in mind relies on the principle of "security through obscurity."

The point of my OP is to show that the tailgate lock was designed for different times. If you were like me and rely on it as the first layer of defense, it will disappoint you.

 

https://bobbercycle.com/products/to...3-8-sockets-combo?_pos=8&_sid=987a6902d&_ss=r

 

If they would have included Tamper proof torx bolts for all of the mounting points, and the cable hardware, you might slow them down a bit more but, getting the gate open, you can remove all the "security features" of the Bobber kit. even with tamper proof torx, all it takes is a smart thief with the money to buy a few bits. I do like it better than the SaBellCo offering. Ski

 

A reminder on SabellCo which I have. It does lock securely enough that if it "freezes up" over time you will have a difficult time getting it off. You should exercise the lock every few months to be sure it still opens. You do not need to remove the lock but just be sure it can open if needed.

 

Here's how I approach my insurance:
Without revealing my insurance company, I am with a customer service oriented company that is also very selective with who they insure. Easy to reach and good customer service in itself will bring up the cost but I feel this one is a good value when you consider all things.
The worst thing after an incident is to have to fight with your own insurance to fight for you or to fight with them over quality of parts and repair.

I pay for the premium with the highest deductible and take the difference and "invest" it.

Because our trucks hold their value, I buy comprehensive. Because our trucks hold their value, the premium is relatively high (even with a $2500 deductible.) With cat and tailgate crimes and claims put in for up to ($6000 per,) our premiums will go up. I am hoping by bringing awareness, we can all protect our tailgates and cats better and keep our premiums from going up. One can dream cant they??

 

Actually, actually, really rather smart idea.

 

That is so shitty to happen for anyone, sorry you had to deal with that.

But do question why you had to pay anything out of pocket? Why not an insurance claim?

Comprehensive deductibles are typically lower than collision (mine is at $0 for comprehensive) and would mean everything would be covered without incurring any costs.

 

I live in a time and place where bolt-on can't be the first line of defense. We have "catch and release" policies. If a bad guy gets caught, they are cited and released (in most cases.) The bad guy's incentive is to not get caught so they can make away with something to fence.
This product can be a good defense layer. Whatever is used needs to buy enough time for detection and response. These bad guys have no problem with spending time on taking a tailgate or cat.

I cant foresee myself in a scenario where I will need to operate without a tailgate. This freeze up could be a nice security "feature." LOL. Especially if the lock picking Youtubers fall on hard times and need my tailgate to get by, lol.

 

Your post came in right after I posted. See post #26

 

Gotcha

Premiums haven't gone up after 2 theft claims and 3 or 4 windshield claims

It actually did go up by I think $100 or so for the entire year and that was after all the fires hitting CA (so like $10/mo)

 

Your insurance company is fair. I checked with mine and they tell me that unless I was at fault, making a claim on comprehensive wont increase the rates. However, over time they will have to increase the rate everyone pays to offset the claims they pay out. When they have enough customers, they can spread that out.

 

Well thanks for the video; that would make me sick to my stomach watching it happen to my own vehicle, while also having the desire to run out and beat the living shit out of said person.

 

I pay a little over a $100 a month with $250 comp and $500 collision deductibles. No claims, no accidents, no tickets and reside in a high vehicle theft area. Home and auto bundled too.

 

Total Chaos, highly recommend them.

 

Similar coverage and bundled insurance. But low vehicle theft area, and I pay $121/mo. total for the three vehicles below.

 

In a lot of places you could do that

 

Thank you

 

I installed TotalChaos. Groceries put SUCH a tremendous strain on the bed-side panels.

 

I was liking the way it fit with the bed mat.

More interested in the extra tie down points, my "off road" use is driving in the yard occasionally.