I though I would like the tailgate step and assist handle. They are always in the way and I want to get rid of the handle but keep the step if possible. Can I remove the plastic tailgate cover, pull the hande and re-install a metal tailgate cover.

If not, Does anyone want to swap a tailgate. Its red, has the back-up camera and, no dealer markings and in excellent condition.

Thanks

 

I did exactly what you asked about. It was also for the same reason.

Remove the plastic tailgate cover. You will find 6 torx screws holding the handle in place, remove them, and do what you wish with the handle. Next you will need to cover the opening with the normal access panel from a non step tailgate. You can order if from the dealership for around $80, or you can find one off of a 1999-2012 pickup for probably a lot less. If you go the used route you will be one step ahead of me and have a painted one. You will also need shorter screws to attach the new access panel to the tailgate. I got shorter screws at Lowes because they were cheaper than the dealership. Hope this helps.

 

^^^^^^ Great post sir, reps sent.

This is a great example of how FTE should work. A person asks a question and the answer appears without the added drama of "you should have searched that" or, "that's a dumb question".

I like it!

 

couldn't agree more

 

A whole lot less if you shop around the local Lowe's parking lot for it...

Good advice. I plan on doing this some day. That handle is a PITA.

 

I wish I had gotten the man step now, these trucks are so flippin high that I have a stool in my garage to step up into my bed.

 

all of the guys at work laugh at the man step and pull it out like a spoiler with the tailgate closed, but i don't know what i did before i had it. I use that step all of the time.

... and tseekins, thanks for the rep.

 

Thanks for the info. I thought it was possible. I'm looking now for a new cover

 

Same here. Love the step but hate having the handle there. Nine times out of ten all I do is drop the step anyways, and I sure miss the flat tailgate to work off. My handle will be coming off as well.

 

Great Idea! Thanks!

 

When folks laugh at your man step it is just a sign of step envy....there are two types of people in this world.....the type that have the tailgate step and the type that wish they did too.


I've thought about swapping my cover out as well, the tailgate step is flat out awesome...I also really like the box access steps on the side too.

 

if you do go with the used access panel i hope you have better luck at the salvage yard than i do. I asked them if they had a tailgate from a 1999-1011 and they looked at me like i was retarded. they said that the part numbers weren't going to be the same. I tried to explain to them that it wasn't an issue, as i have taken measurements and any of those years would work. I think they just didnt' want to have to search for each year's model to see if they had one.