Plastic Tailgate Cap Alternative

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Oct 6, 2012 | 09:11 PM

kjf-250

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From: North GA

Plastic Tailgate Cap Alternative

Another one bites the dust...my second plastic tailgate cap has given up once again after dragging some things out of the bed. Half of the locking tabs have broken off again, so I just left the cheap thing off. Are there any viable alternative to the cheap OEM cap? I have paid $45 once already for this one and it has already broken again. I would love to find something decent that would last longer than a year. Anyone have any ideas or tried anything on your truck? I have looked at the metal diamond-plate caps but they all appear to go on top of the plastic cap, which seems like a step backwards.

Oct 6, 2012 | 11:44 PM

A/Ox4

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Joined: Aug 2009

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From: Missouri

Bump. Also need a new cap. I have mine in my bed but I want a better alternative.

Oct 7, 2012 | 10:34 AM

kjf-250

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From: North GA

The only thing I can find that I like is the black diamond plate cap made by DeeZee. Like this:Black Tread Tailgate Protector. The problem with this one is that it goes over the plastic one. I have been considering buying it anyways and seeing if I could make it work.

Oct 7, 2012 | 11:51 AM

HH60FE

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From: Albuquerque

If your sliding a bunch of stuff, maybe this would work. I know Dee Zee makes quality stuff.
Dee Zee Diamond Plate Full Tailgate Protector | Free Shipping

Oct 7, 2012 | 01:12 PM

pin8246

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From: Glen Rose, Texas

Just an idea and my not work, just my mind working. If your thinking about getting one of those caps that go over the stock setup (thats all I found to). Why not add a couple bolts down through the stock plastic piece to attach it to the tailgate better than just the clip in pieces. If you secure it down that way, and then put the Dee Zee on top of it like its supposed to go, you will never see the bolts you put in.

Thats just my mind wondering right now. May not work, but thought I would throw it out there.

Oct 7, 2012 | 01:21 PM

c125bob

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From: Chattahoochee Hills, Ga.

I put about 5 self tapping screws in mine spaced across the inside. It's hanging in there and the one in the middle helps me line up the trailer hitch !