Third gen tailgate strength

I also bent my 2nd gen tailgate like the photo shows with the dog sitting on it... Wondering about the 3rd gen.... Wondering if going with a steel/aluminum/hdpe flat panel will stiffen it even more or not... ?

 

Good to know, need to check mine although that still won't overload me. And based on 40 years of experience, these trucks can take it.

 

I put the relentless fab aluminum panel on and loaded the tailgate with 9 4x4s that were 12 ft long.

 

I'm here a lot, like too much, and I don't think I have ever seen a bent 3rd gen tailgate. I know when I am messing with mine, I have a fair greater fear of the cables snapping than the gate bending.

Not worth much, but whatever.

 

That a good point, cant recall any threads over the years showing any bent tailgates on 3rd Gen.

 

Pics when it’s loaded pls

 

mine feels kind of flimsy when i stand on it with all my weight on one foot but so far it hasn't bent. definitely flexed it out a bit though...

considering getting one of those metal plates that relentless fabrication makes. i'm always standing on my tailgate for work.

 

For What it's worth., a full size ATV, which weighs as much or more with accessories, is no problem....but I needed a ramp to clear the wheelwells (too narrow to sit upon, to wide to sit between)

 

Nice fit

 

OP, I came from a 1st gen Tundra thinking the same until I got the truck.
The Tacoma bed is substantially smaller and weaker.
The payload ratings and towing capacity being almost the same as 1st gen Tundra is laughable.
Don't get me wrong I have a 3rd gen taco now and it is great for what it is however, capacity wise, I would say it is about 60% that of a 1st gen tundra all stock.
With a 900lb bed load you will definitely need to beef up your rear end to be safe, especially off camber.