Flat Tailgate Surface Options

[ResqFE]

Besides the commercial options available to buy, has anyone made a durable flat surface panel that is installed on the interior of the tailgate? I currently just use a thin foam mat to climb in/out of my camper but would like a flat surface to place my grill on as well. Any homemade solutions out there? Thanks

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[Deleted member 57233]

You could always just pop rivet a sheet of aluminum over it. Most metal supply shops will cut it to your dimensions

 

[ResqFE]

Kind of what I am thinking too. Maybe roll on some "No Slip" paint.

 

[Thunderspud]

I don't have a currently purchasable solution for you, as the recommendation I am about to provide is unfortunately no longer available. But you may be able to procure one used, or maybe it will give you an idea to fabricate your own.

There was a company called SpecGate (search here on the forums and you'll find it) that provided a nice HDPE solution with integrated attachment points and a magnetic plate to keep things tidy while working. I got one prior to the owners passing, and it has been much handier than I envisioned it beiing.

 

[ShadowsPapa]

Aluminum from Menards, Lowe's and so on - line up holes in it with the screws that are already in the tailgate and just use longer screws to attach it using existing holes. You can countersink the holes in the aluminum.
That way - no holes in the tailgate, easily removed with no damage if you sell or trade it later. You simply make holes in the aluminum to match the existing screws in the tailgate. Where the screws sit low, for mounting my tailgate ladder, I used spacers to take up the space between the ladder mounting plate and the tailgate.

 

[ResqFE]

How thick was the aluminum? Any pics to share? Thanks

 

[Jaxmax]

I would go with UHMW board , several thickness are avalible easy to work with can be routed to make cup holder or even counter an area for a rubber knee pad when climbing in….Jack

 

[ResqFE]

How heavy is it for a tailgate cut piece?

 

[Jaxmax]

UHMW is probably inch for inch lighter then aluminum, I have UHMW on my skids and even at 3/8” was not heavy.

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