Community Forums

jetmechoh · 02-27-2015, 07:11 AM

Thinking about putting a 5th wheel style tailgate on my truck. Any suggestions on brands or what to look for. Prefer not to spend a lot of money on one but don't want to get one too cheap that it will not hold up.

Wayne M · 02-27-2015, 01:13 PM

When I had a 5'er I never put on a 5th wheel tailgate. I didn't see the need for one. When I was walking to the truck I'd put the tailgate down, and after hooking up I put it back up. Two easy steps and a lot cheaper than a new tailgate.

Personal preference I guess.

SmokeyWren · 02-27-2015, 03:52 PM

Check Cabellas. They have a decent 5er tailgate for $300.
Stromberg Carlson 4000 Series Tailgate : Cabela's

I had a steel Husky on my F-250 for about 10 years. I bought my step-son a steel Husky 5er tailgate for his F-150 a few years ago. Around $600 for a new aluminum one now. Less for the steel ones.
Amazon.com: Husky Liners Custom Fit Aluminum Fifth Wheel Tailgate for Select Chevrolet/GMC Models (Silver): Automotive

You can order a Husky tailgate from several different vendors. For example:
Husky Liners Louvered Tailgate - JCWhitney

HicksRA · 02-27-2015, 04:18 PM

I used a Handy tailgate on my GMC dually and liked it more than the plastic Stromberg Carlson that I had prior. The Handy is made of metal.
Wish you were closer, I'd make you a deal on mine because I no longer have the truck after moving to a motorhome.
Buy Custom Truck Tailgates Online | Handy Industries
http://www.pickupspecialties.com/tailgate_handy_V.htm

JIMNLIN · 02-27-2015, 06:48 PM

CustomFlow Elite Series Louvered Tailgate - Truck Customizers
I like my '03 Custom Flow that I painted same color as the truck for my 5th wheel and GN trailers.
Cuts down on wind turbulence in the bed when towing the 5th wheel RV trailer. Now I can carry "stuff" in the bed without it blowing out at highway speeds.

MnTom · 02-27-2015, 06:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JIMNLIN

Cuts down on wind turbulence in the bed when towing the 5th wheel RV trailer. Now I can carry "stuff" in the bed without it blowing out at highway speeds.

Yep, that is exactly what I have found out too. Way way less turbulence.

jetmechoh · 02-28-2015, 07:07 AM

I appreciate the info on the tailgate. I have a 8ft bed on my truck and when the tailgate is down I only have about 3 inches clearance between the tailgate and the trailer. If I have the slightest angle to my hook up it could easily cause some damage. That is why I'm looking at a new tailgate. I'm leaning toward a metal one. Only thing I don't like about the model I'm looking at is it don't lock. I don't know what the theft rate is on this type of tailgate but it looks like it would be very easy to steal. Anyway thanks for the feedback, I really appreciate it.

Cummins12V98 · 02-28-2015, 07:15 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jetmechoh

I appreciate the info on the tailgate. I have a 8ft bed on my truck and when the tailgate is down I only have about 3 inches clearance between the tailgate and the trailer. If I have the slightest angle to my hook up it could easily cause some damage. That is why I'm looking at a new tailgate. I'm leaning toward a metal one. Only thing I don't like about the model I'm looking at is it don't lock. I don't know what the theft rate is on this type of tailgate but it looks like it would be very easy to steal. Anyway thanks for the feedback, I really appreciate it.

Pretty simple back far enough under and then close tailgate.

Been towing 5th wheels since the early 90's and have always used a regular tailgate. Not worth the hassle or money IMHO.

poncho62 · 02-28-2015, 07:19 AM

I have one in my garage that I have never put on, got it in a package deal with my hitch....I dont use it because I use a tonneau cover when not towing my trailer...too much of a hassle to switch back and forth I guess

John H... · 02-28-2015, 07:23 AM

When I had a 5er, the first one I bought was just some straps. After that, I made my own out of plastic pipe and painted it black. Looked pretty good and was inexpensive.

J Birder · 02-28-2015, 08:23 AM

I got one from Etrailer for under $200. It is a little bit difficult to close, but otherwise, I am quite happy with it. Tailgate Open-Design Tailgate Truck Bed Accessories | etrailer.com

Joel

RichR · 02-28-2015, 09:48 AM

Geno's garage has a lock that fits on the hinge of the tailgate.20 bucks and have had it on for several years. My tail gate is made from pipe and is chrome, but I don't remember brand name. Close call with clearance tail gate to trailer was enough for me!

MnTom · 02-28-2015, 11:20 AM

If you are afraid of theft of your tailgate (I have heard of it happening, but no first hand knowledge of it happening) most tailgates are easy to secure. Just use a hose clamp around the right hinge. It won't stop someone who wants it, but it will slow them down a good bit.