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Jan 26, 2000 | 09:24 PM

cbremer

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a stupid question

Has anyone had any problems with their tailgate being stolen? I dont live in the best area, and I wouldnt put it past some of my neighbors to do such a thing. Question is, is there some easy, inexpensive way to secure the tailgate, but still be able to take it off if needed? And I dont mean adding a shackle to the side and padlocking it. The less it impacts the look of the truck, the better.

Thanks,
Chuck

Jan 26, 2000 | 10:30 PM

PAUL_2

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a stupid question

Chuck ,
Short of chaining a dog on the back ... Im pretty sure you can buy a handle w/ a lock in it ? I know in 97 Ford added a lock in the tailgate handle . Maybe some of the others know of a place where you can purchase one ... I seem to recal seeing one in a JC Whitnet catalog ... <a href="http://www.jcwhitney.com">http://www.jcwhitney.com</a> . A lot of their stuff can be pretty cheap . Other than that , it wouldnt be too hard to gear up a couple of brackets and a pad lock , but then that doesnt look so great and if they want it bad , they ll beat your truck all to pieces to get it off . Good luck with it .
Paul

Jan 26, 2000 | 10:53 PM

cbremer

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a stupid question

Oh, yeah.. I remember seeing one of those tailgate locks.. they hook to the power locks inside (no key) and its just sort of a shaft that sticks through the back of the handle, inside the tailgate, right? Problem is, jc whitney is really pissed at me right now.. I put a stop payment on a $600 check to them, and they didnt appreciate it. Oh well, I changed my mind about new seats, at least from them. Either way, thanks for reminding me about that lock. Time for the credit card...

Chuck

Jan 27, 2000 | 01:05 AM

SPLabar

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a stupid question

Its low tech but it works. Put a hose clamp around the gate's right side hinge, you know the one where you lift up the gate at just the right angle and pull up to remove the whole thing. The clamp keeps it locked in. It wont keep someone from getting your tail gate if they wanted it, but it will slow them down or detur them all together. If your really woried about it I guess you could tack weld the clamp together.
Steve

Jan 27, 2000 | 02:06 AM

cbremer

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a stupid question

that's exactly the kind of idea i was looking for!! just enough for someone to tug on it and say "nevermind"... now i know why i love this board so much...

thanks alot!
Chuck

Jan 27, 2000 | 10:11 PM

67buick

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a stupid question

Yes, your taigate will be stolen. All you have to do to stop a thief entirely is to install a left outer hinge half in place of you right outer hinge half. You will probably have to remove your step bumper to get to the lower bolt.

Jan 27, 2000 | 10:14 PM

67buick

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a stupid question

Yes, your tailgate will be stolen. All you have to do to stop a thief entirely is to install a left outer hinge half in place of you right outer hinge half. You will probably have to remove your step bumper to get to the lower bolt.