Hello All. Thanks very much for your help in the recent past... I've only had my truck a couple weeks, but have a few more questions already:
1. I'm looking at a bed extender, and guess i was thinking i'd also get a tailgate lock so that it's not so easy for the thing to walk away (they lift right out if they can be rolled up vertical) along with the gate itself. Anyway, i've noticed quite a few listings on the web for power tail gate locks that are controlled along with the power door locks. Does anyone have any experience with these? I don't care that much for power, but don't care to carry another key around with me so it's worth considering. Are they effective? (meaning they lock and the wires etc are not accessible). Also, are they tough to install?
2. It's a small thing but the clock on the dashboard is completely obstructed by the steernig wheel. What were they thinking? Anyway, anyone out there come up with good alternatives? I've noticed an blank knock-out that isn't used just up and to the right of this (probably for an option i didn't get) and was wondering if that's a possibility.... Any ideas appreciated.
John, Welcome and congratulations on your new truck. I have not heard of the power tailgate lock, would you be willing to forward to me a link or two? It'd be much appreciated.
As for the clock, you are totally correct. The location really sucks. There's no other way to put it. Worst possible spot ever. I plan on fixing this when I buy my replacement radio. I will make sure that it has time showing on the faceplate.
Welcome to TS and don't be afraid to ask questions. After that, try to make it to one of the many meets that go on. You'll meet a lot of great people that know a lot about your truck and they only want to help.
Hey Dave. Thanks for the info and the welcome. I guess the radio is an idea, though i'm ok with the radio i have... i'll have to think that over. I found the locks at several places, usually around $65 to $70. lowest price i found was $59 at:
I like the concept too, although I don't have a shell or cover over my bed, I don't like the idea of someone being able to walk up and remove my tailgate and walk away with it. $60.00 is a lot cheaper than a new tailgate.
Thanks for the links. I've already bookmarked them.
Dave - FYI, i spoke with the owner at "truckgadgets.com" today (the first link i sent you). I had questions on how the locks install, and i guess they're fairly small, seeing as the owner called me back. That's fine with me though... Anyway, he said he's done many of them and it's really pretty simple. said Tacoma's are no problem too. (His name was Ed Frantz)
Sounds like the device is wired in behind the existing gate handle, then the wire runs to a plug that sticks out the bottom of the gate. This makes it so you can unplug it to remove the gate, when you need to. From there, another wire runs down and over to along the frame, then up toward the front door. You come into the cab under the trim by the door. he did mention drilling a hole at that point, but it still seemed pretty reasonable. then, it's a matter of locating the correct wire, and crimping the connector down onto that wire. He said they have specific directions for each truck, and that he's available for support. Seemed like a nice guy.
By the way, if it sounds like i'm pitching, no dice... i'm still undecided myself. I will say i was concerned about a wire showing under my tailgate, and he confirmed that you will see about an inch or so of wire cover (there's sleave or something) going between the tailgate and then down under the bumper. I'm still thinking about that.
That's about all i've found out so far. If you end up jumping in, please let me know. I'll do the same. John
I've installed the Pop & Lock power tailgate lock - don't drill into your truck to get the wires into the cab!! I just attached them with wire ties to the frame rails underneath, ran them up into the engine compartment, then using a small-blade flat screwdriver punched a hole in the large rubber grommet in the firewall underneath the dash on the driver's side and routed them into the passenger compartment through that. I have a shell on my truck, with the locking rear window on the shell and now the lock on my tailgate I feel it's a pretty secure setup. As for wire showing underneath the tailgate, I could only see mine if I crawled underneath the rear end and looked up. And TruckerDave is correct, even if you don't have a shell the power lock would keep someone from just unlatching your tailgate and walking away with it.
Hey Thanks Groupset. Nice to talk to someone who's done it. By the way, you mention Pop-n-Lock. I know they also have a keyed lock that seems fit into your current handle. Have you seen these? Is it something that screws in place, or does the lock itself drop out when unlocked.
I know, it doesn't seem as convenient as the automatic lock, but it's also less than half the price... just weighing my options. Dont think i'd do it if it's gonna look shoddy, but again, have never really seen one, only pictures. Any thoughts on this appreciated. Thanks again. John
I just got the Pop & Lock keyed lock for my tailgate. $25.00 at various places. It's a simple install, really. You remove the access panel from the inside of the tailgate (12 screws), then remove the handle itself (2 screws). The Pop & Lock fits right onto it, then you put the handle back in, and screw it on. Put the access pannel back on, and you're done. I bought it in prep for getting a fiberglass tonneau later this month, so I can lock up the whole back end when I want. The only think I don't like about it is the label, but I think I'll be peeling that off soon.
Tacoma Q's: Power Tailgat lock, the Clock
Linear Mode
