Tailgate opening by itself
Senior User
Joined: Jun 2017
Posts: 324
Likes: 8
From: Austin, TX
I agree it should work properly. I just couldn’t shake the thought of having it fail on me. Thus, a strap seemed like my best insurance policy against faulty design/repair.
Elder User
Joined: Oct 2017
Posts: 559
Likes: 4
Yeah I hear ya... Even though mine has never opened on its own I put the cable on cuz I have accidentally opened the tailgate using the in cab button.. Last thing I want is my tailgate to open from my mistake while I'm parked backed in somewhere
Logistics Pro
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 3,529
Likes: 390
From: SEVA
I love my 2017 KR but HATE the tailgate remote release. It is one of, if not the most moronic items I've ever seen added to a motor vehicle. As I've asked before, other than when backing up to a 5th wheel or goose neck, when would this so-called convenience serve any purpose whatsoever? I haven't heard/read any replies. This one may go down in the same category as the Pinto fuel tanks ... just plain stupid.
On the other hand, does anyone here actually like the remote tailgate release? If so, please speak up because I'm curious.
On the other hand, does anyone here actually like the remote tailgate release? If so, please speak up because I'm curious.
Tuned
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 252
Likes: 2
From: AL
I actually use it all the time, but only because it’s there. Luckily, I haven’t had issues on either of my trucks (yet). So when it works, sure it’s mildly convenient. However, I could absolutely live without it and, based on this thread, I constantly worry about it. It would be bad if mines drops while towing my travel trailer. While I use it frequently (again, just because I can and it’s there), I’d trade it for the old style in a heartbeat for the security.
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Logistics Pro
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 3,529
Likes: 390
From: SEVA
Good reply ... makes sense to me.
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Sep 2016
Posts: 1,613
Likes: 156
I went through the trouble of trying to get rid of the remote/push button tailgate release. I bought a new handle and actuator. I was able to get rid of it all and convert to the manual handle. However, the wiring architecture is completely different between the remote and manual release trucks. I could not find any way to power the power lock actuator that is needed for the manual handle. I spent time with 2 parts advisors looking at parts diagrams, wiring diagrams, and trying different tailgate wiring harnesses. All with no success. I thought it would be very easy to go from a complex tailgate handle to a simple one.
So If you wanted to switch to a manual handle, it is an easy swap. However, you will lose the ability to lock your tailgate. For me, that was unacceptable. So I continue to worry about the tailgate opening on its own and freezing shut in the winter (happened 2x last year)
So If you wanted to switch to a manual handle, it is an easy swap. However, you will lose the ability to lock your tailgate. For me, that was unacceptable. So I continue to worry about the tailgate opening on its own and freezing shut in the winter (happened 2x last year)
Logistics Pro
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 3,529
Likes: 390
From: SEVA
I liked Rockinfigs’ approach and copied it. I was able to find that same fitting among the picture-frame hanging hardware at Ace. I modified it a bit, added an aluminum non-locking carabiner, and spliced some 12-strand rope I had laying about.
Elder User
Joined: Oct 2017
Posts: 559
Likes: 4
Logistics Pro
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 3,529
Likes: 390
From: SEVA
Thanks! 3-strand and hollow-braid 12-strand ropes are relatively easy to splice ... double-braid 16-strand is a real chore. I only trust my splicing on rigging ropes and resort to professional splices for my life support ropes.
