How to Remove a Toyota Truck Tailgate

The tailgate is the key part of a truck bed. Without the tailgate, you can't contain anything in the bed. But if you have a large load to carry and the tailgate is in the way, you can remove it fairly easily. The tailgate is heavy but still manageable for one person. This process is done here on a Toyota Tundra, but the steps are similar in many Toyota truck models, as well as other trucks too.

Instructions

1

Open the tailgate, and support it with your right hand.

2

Unhook the tailgate straps from the side of the bed by pulling the tab open and unhooking the strap. You must support the tailgate at this point; otherwise it will fall and could get damaged.

3

Lift up the tailgate, and put it at a 45-degree angle to the bed.

4

Lift up on the right side of the tailgate to free it from the latch. Then pull out toward the right side to release the tailgate from the driver's side latch, supporting the tailgate with your thigh or arms, depending on your strength.