RowJ

Looks like 1+3/4" hose clamp is about right?
Mentioned it to neighbor w/ D-Max and guess what? Won't work. Their outer tailgate skin is attached to that mounting ring. No way to slip a clamp over it.

RJ

Vic Romano

The dealer i got mine from puts the pop n locks on all their trucks. Seems to work pretty good, but i really don't use it much

mt_rodeo

Ive seen ads for a company selling "tailgate locks". All it is a hose clamp! (worm gear clamp as u all call it)

FunFinder5

I'm pretty sure the two gooseneck creases, almost broken plastic handle, numerous dents, paint rubbed off due to loading/unloading, and rust spots make a mighty fine theft deterrent for me.

Matter of fact, I'd be better off if someone sole mine... cause $50 later after my deductible I'd be sporting a new fresh one.... Oh wait... then I'd be worried about it getting stolen like the rest of ya... Na... I'm good with my very well used tailgate!

CatDiesel_762

Walmart or Oriely's have worm gear clamps that have a pull off butterfly head. Its a little bit better than a regular worm gear since you do not need a screwdriver, but the buttefly head.

Shawn

OldDodgeOwner

My tailgate theft deterrent's a red heeler/border collie...55 lbs of muscle and teeth...haven't lost a tailgate yet...

RowJ

A drop of JB Weld on the screw head makes a socket necessary.
Hopefully a little extra deterant!
Facing the other way would probably be just as good.




RJ

rich

its nice to have hauler bed

Grit Dog

Doesn't someone make a lock for the handle? Do the new trucks have that as an option? Maybe get one OEM.
Not totally secure, but a decent deterrant.

zulusafari

I ordered a Bully replacement locking tailgate handle for mine, to add security to my retrax rolling tonneau cover. Problem is, the tailgate handle must be locked to prevent them taking the gate, so if you forget or don't need the extra security of a locked gate handle, then they can still steal the gate from the truck.

Are they able to wedge/knock the hose clamp to the side far enough to still get the gate? I haven't had much luck with wormgear clamps staying tight enough on metal-to-metal applications in the past. Could be the cheap, cheesy clamps I find in my area, though.

cbrahs

NAPA has the same style latch for $20.