Weak tailgate reinforcement solution

I'd like a version that just replaces just the top portion of the factory piece. For my uses, that would be all I need. Would be a bit cheaper and less material since it would not have to cover the entire panel. Just the bendy portion that creates the strength needed.


Nice work there. I may price it out here since you included the CAD drawings. Thanks for providing those.

 

Great idea and thanks for sharing ...

This is one of my main projects on a 2009 DC-SB.

Does anyone know a company that makes these ???

SOS
.

 

No one makes them to my knowledge. I heard there was a guy on a different forum making somthing similar a while back, but he hasnt been doing it for some time now. He called them 'Gater savers'

 

Well, I'm definatly being cautious which is why I'm asking.... Mind if i take the plans and have somebody in my area make the tailgate for me??

 

Nope. Thats why I drew them up originally. If I start making and selling them myself in the future, I may take them off but for now, feel free to do it.

 

thanks so much! I've placed some RFP's with some local shops to see what they will do for me.... hope they make one

 

ok so i am going to need a tally of who might all be interested in getting a tailgate reinforced with 1/8 alluminum diamond plate. I figured ill start here because its already on topic. I've got a shop near me that is willing to work with us on finding the best solution, with the possibilities of rhino-lining, as well as powdercoating or any kind of special treating....


let me know who is interested

 

I don't think you'll be able to bend 1/4" plate that tight, unless you anneal it until it's dead soft, then temper it again after bending. Diamond plate is , of course, already tempered when you get it. 1/8" is probably the thickest practical plate to use.

 

thank you for the correction... you are correct its 1/8 not 1/4.

 

I wouldn't use aluminum. The different metals will cause galvanic corrosion to form when in contact with each other.

Best to use steel on steel.

 

Is there any way you could make one out of steel? I'm looking to load a 700lb atv in the back and I'm worried that the .125" aluminum might not be strong enough

 

Yeah, but I guess I'll have to pay extra to have one rhinolined to have a black one that won't rust. Not really wantin a folded tailgate nor do I want a glaring shiny aluminum sheet or brown scratched rusty brown back there either with all the rest of the trim on the outside of the truck black. Black paint or powdercoating won't be nothin but scratched up & faunky lookin either.

 

I load 650 Rincon's, Foreman's, and Grizzly's in mine with absolutely no troubles or worries about strength. The bends are what makes it so strong.

 

Bump for a 'search and you shall find' score. this is exactly what i was looking for.... You're the man Eric. Thanks for sharing! I am so gonna make use of these excellent CAD drawings sometime soon.

 

Subd

 

Almost two years ....guess it never got off the drawing board.

 

The product is on my website for orders and 3 are in stock at the moment. Been available for several years now! Tried and true design, no failures yet

 

Just got 2 orders in the last 5 minutes. Lol.
Anyways, material is on hand and I'll be making another 4 steel and 4 aluminum this week to stock.

 

Been meaning to order one. Thanks for the reminder! Order placed. I can feel the stock tailgate somewhat flex when my big ass gets on it.