4 replies to this topic

[5outta6]

I was to remove the tailgate on my truck when using with my camper. 

 

On my old truck I did it that way.

 

On my new truck, I'm wondering if I can leave the tailgate on.

 

My camper would be about 9 inches on the tailgate?

 

thoughts?

[TacomaAustin]

I knew someone with a compact Sun Lite pop top camper installed onto a Ford 150.  He was able to close the tailgate with the camper installed and left it on to use as a porch / mudroom for dirty boots. It also made for a nice shelf/table for an outdoor cook stove.

 

My personal preference is to remove the tailgate prior to installing the camper to save weight and have less of an overhang past the rear bumper.  In my case the tailgate would have to remain in the lowered position.

[B-Rad]

I left my fifth wheel tailgait on. I also coverd the slats with aluminum, fabbed some solid bars to replace the cables. ( I never really trusted the cable crimps to support any weight or bouncing) the cables It worked great with my Hawk. It provide a place to set things on, easy access. I have since sold my hawk, wife was having knee issues, but every time I see a Four Wheel camper; I miss the Hawk.

[JaSAn]

Depends:

How close are you to GVWR, GRWR?  Tailgates are heavy; mine weighs about 80 lbs.

 

What is its utility for YOU?  Is it easier or harder to get into the camper?  Does its uses outweigh its drawbacks?

 

I have a receiver 2 step; I step up into the camper.  I lean a little forward as I step up; its an easy, natural motion, no hitting my head.  A tailgate would just get in the way.

[57Pan]

The thing about tailgate on, is one I also believe it makes it hard to enter, and in case of a Toyota Tacoma you can’t lower the spare tire, if the tailgate is down.