How to Remove a Truck Tailgate

There can be a number of reasons why you may need to remove the tailgate door from the back of your pickup. If the tailgate has been damaged, you should remove it for possible repairs or replacement. Some people may want to replace the stock tailgate with a mesh tailgate. Like a vehicle door, the tailgate is a large and heavy body part. Removing it from your truck is simple, but it will take at least two people to safely detach it.

Instructions

1

Open up the tailgate with the handle and latch, and let it lie flat against the bumper.

2

Detach the retaining cables from the sides of the truck by lifting the spring retainer up and sliding it off the pin. On some models, like Chevrolets, you may also need to remove the bolt near one of the hinges, using a wrench.

3

Lower the tailgate farther downward, paying attention to the tailgate's hinge pin with a slot in its pocket--this is usually on the tailgate's right-side hinge pin. Look for the flat on the hinge pin to line up with the slot.

4

Lift the hinge pin out of the slot to remove that side of the tailgate from the body. Have your assistant support the tailgate's weight while you withdraw the other hinge pin from the body so you can both lift the tailgate off the truck.