Truck Camper Tailgate: Open Or Closed?

can I leave my tailgate on with a truck camper

Whether you can leave your tailgate on with a truck camper depends on several factors. Firstly, the size of your camper and truck bed is important. If your camper is small enough to fit in the truck bed with the tailgate down, you may be able to leave it on without any issues. However, the tailgate adds weight to your truck, reducing your payload capacity, so if you're already close to your capacity, removing it may be preferable. Additionally, the tailgate provides some support for the rear of the camper, so removing it could result in a slight overhang.

There are both advantages and disadvantages to leaving the tailgate on. On the one hand, removing the tailgate can be cumbersome, especially with modern trucks that have complex wiring harnesses for features like backup cameras. Leaving the tailgate on can also improve security and fuel efficiency, and it provides a convenient step or shelf for entering and exiting the camper. On the other hand, removing the tailgate reduces weight, protects the tailgate from damage, and may be necessary if your camper has an overhang that extends beyond the truck bed. Ultimately, it's important to consult your vehicle's manufacturer for recommendations, as removing the tailgate may affect the structural support of the truck bed and could void your warranty.

Characteristics Values
Weight of tailgate 50-150 lbs
Tailgate as support Tailgate provides some support for the rear of the camper
Tailgate as step Easier to enter the camper with tailgate as a step
Tailgate as storage Tailgate can be used to store items in the truck bed
Tailgate as protection Tailgate protects the truck bed from damage
Tailgate as safety Tailgate prevents items from falling out of the truck bed
Tailgate as a requirement Some campers require the tailgate to be removed
Tailgate as an option Depending on the size of the camper and truck bed, the tailgate may be left on

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Tailgate weight reduces payload capacity

Tailgates can add a considerable amount of weight to your truck, which reduces your payload capacity. This is an important consideration if you're already near your payload capacity.

A truck's tailgate can add anywhere from 50 to 150 pounds of weight. This is a significant amount, especially if you don't need the tailgate. Removing as much extra weight as possible helps you save on your payload and fuel consumption.

Your truck will have a payload capacity, which is the maximum amount of weight your vehicle can carry. Truck campers are often extremely heavy and can put some of the heaviest-duty trucks near their capacity. Removing the tailgate can help maximise every bit of weight.

The weight of a tailgate varies depending on the make and model of your truck. For example, the tailgate of a Toyota Tundra weighs 55 pounds, while the tailgate of a Ford F-150 can hold up to 600 pounds.

It's important to note that exceeding the weight limit set by the manufacturer can be dangerous and cause damage to your truck. Loading too much weight onto your tailgate can cause an accident or permanently damage your vehicle. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the weight of your tailgate and how it affects your payload capacity.

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Tailgate removal is a two-person job

  • Put on gloves to protect your hands and get a better grip.
  • Open the tailgate so that it is flat.
  • Unhook any cables that are attached. Depending on the make and model, cables may or may not be present.
  • Grab the tailgate with both hands, spaced far enough apart to support both ends while maintaining a good grip.
  • Lift the tailgate up and towards you at an angle. If it doesn't come up easily, try standing at an angle while lifting or sliding the tailgate towards one of the pivot points.

In some cases, tailgate removal can be a challenging and time-consuming task. For example, certain truck models have a backup camera harness that needs to be disconnected by crawling under the vehicle. This can be difficult to access and may require disconnecting from the inside of the tailgate before removal. Additionally, the weight of the tailgate can make the process cumbersome, especially for older individuals. As a result, it is often recommended to have an extra set of hands to assist in the removal process and avoid potential damage.

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Tailgate removal is time-consuming

Some newer trucks have complex tailgate designs with built-in backup cameras, steps, and handrails, making removal and reinstallation even more cumbersome. The weight of the tailgate can also impact the payload capacity of the truck, and for those concerned about fuel efficiency, it is worth noting that removing the tailgate may result in improved mileage.

Given these considerations, it is essential to weigh the benefits of tailgate removal against the time and effort required. For some, the process may be justifiable to protect the tailgate from damage, optimise payload, or enhance fuel efficiency. However, for others, the inconvenience of tailgate removal may outweigh the potential advantages, especially if the camper setup does not require its removal. Ultimately, the decision to remove the tailgate depends on individual preferences, the specific truck and camper combination, and the intended usage.

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Tailgate removal may be unnecessary if the camper fits

Tailgate removal is unnecessary if the camper fits. However, it is important to note that tailgates are heavy and can weigh up to 50-150 lbs. This adds weight to your truck, reducing your payload capacity. Removing the tailgate can help you save on payload and fuel consumption.

If you have a large dually truck, this may not be a concern. However, if you are already up against your payload capacity, removing the tailgate can help you save weight. Additionally, tailgates can be difficult to remove and reinstall, especially if they are on the heavier side. It may require two people to safely remove and reinstall the tailgate without damaging the truck or tailgate.

Some benefits of keeping the tailgate on include the added support it provides for the rear of the camper. Without the tailgate, the rear of the camper may overhang slightly and lack support. The tailgate can also be used as an entry step, providing convenience when loading and unloading.

Ultimately, the decision to keep or remove the tailgate depends on the specific truck and camper combination, as well as personal preferences. Consult your vehicle's manufacturer for recommendations and guidelines to make an informed decision.

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Tailgate on can act as a porch/step

The tailgate can be used as a porch or step when the camper is attached to the truck bed. This is especially useful when the camper is small enough to fit entirely into the bed of the truck, leaving some space for the tailgate to be used as a porch.

A tailgate can be used as a porch or step, depending on the size of the camper and the truck bed. It can be a great place to set up a grill or camp chairs, and it can also be used as an extra step when entering or exiting the camper.

Some people choose to remove the tailgate when using a truck camper to protect it from damage and reduce the overall weight of the vehicle. However, others choose to leave the tailgate on for the added convenience and functionality it provides.

One person shared their experience of using their tailgate as a bench, kitchen, "lookout", shoe rack, and more. They found it to be a useful addition to their camping setup and preferred to keep it attached.

Another individual shared that they built a 7-foot by 5-foot back porch attached to their camper, which provided extra room and storage space for their camping gear.

A third person mentioned that they kept their tailgate in the down position and attached an indoor/outdoor rug to it, creating a comfortable space to sit and relax outside without having to set up chairs.

The tailgate can also be used as an entry step, making it easier to get in and out of the camper, especially when loading groceries or taking off shoes.

Overall, the tailgate can be a useful feature to have when camping, providing a versatile space for various activities and offering a sense of security when storing items in the truck bed.

Frequently asked questions

Removing and reinstalling the tailgate can be challenging, especially if you're doing it alone. It is a heavy and awkward task that requires disconnecting and reconnecting the wiring harness for the backup camera and tailgate lock. However, some newer trucks have improved the process by allowing access to the wiring harness with the tailgate open. Additionally, some people have modified their trucks by extending the wiring harness or adding an external backup camera to avoid the hassle.

Removing the tailgate has several advantages. Firstly, it reduces weight, which is crucial if you're close to your payload capacity. Secondly, it eliminates the risk of damaging the tailgate's paint job from rocks and other road debris. Lastly, some truck campers are designed with an overhang that requires the tailgate to be removed for a secure fit.

Keeping the tailgate on has its benefits too. It provides additional support for the rear of the camper and can be used as a step or a small "porch" area. Additionally, the tailgate keeps items secure in the truck bed and improves fuel economy by creating an aerodynamic profile.

Yes, it is important to check your local laws and regulations. Some states require a tailgate or cargo netting to prevent items from falling out of the truck bed. Additionally, certain trucks may have specific requirements, such as California's mandate for a camper to be on the truck at all times for non-commercial registration.

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