Has anyone installed a factory locking tailgate mechanism on a non-locking style tailgate yet? If so how involved was it, and what parts were required? I keep hearing of more and more tailgates getting stolen , and I don't want to have a story of my own to tell. I may end up just doing the hose clamp trick, but would rather have the OEM style lock.

 

If you have a locking tonneau cover you could do what I am; and that is the latch "flip kit". For about $30 it puts the latch on the inside of the tail gate using your factory handle instead of on the outside. THis way, when your tonneau is locked, so is your tailgate. Just a suggestion.

 

That would work, but I wasn't planning on a tonneau cover for this truck. Then again, 6 months ago I told my wife I was going to leave this truck stock too.

 

Put yourself a power locking tailgate kit on for about $70. Oh, yeah you have to already have power door locks onthe truck. I installed mine in about 30minutes. Works great

 

Where do you get a power locking tailgate latch. How does it work, off the key fob like the doors? I would be very interested in doing this mod.

 

I have power windows and locks. That power locking tailgate sounds interesting, lets hear more.

 

The previous owner of my 03 installed a power tailgate lock, but nowhere on it seems to be the manufacturer. Anyways, access to the tailgate handle is through the inner tailgate panel. A solenoid and bracket are attached there. Wiring is run along the frame rail, through the front firewall and then taps into the driver's door power lock wires under the dash.

The tailgate locks/unlocks with the drivers door. Most convenient.

 

I bought an after market lock for about $30. It works but I think a screw driver would probably discourage it sufficiently to break it.

 

i bought one of those after market pop n locks when i first bought the truck. the fit and fininsh sucked. like it was also stated earlier, i think a screwdriver would pop it-it is only plastic with a cheap lock. i returned it

 

Here is the one I installed. Have to splice into the power door lock through the firewall.

http://www.pickupspecialties.com/pow...lgate_lock.htm

 

Thanks for the link. I'll be ordering soon.

 

I agree, the power lock is a nice setup. One of the first things I did on my truck. It's nice to be able to hit the lock feature on the key and hear the tailgate lock also. Added security is piece of mind.

 

I have a PowerGate lock assembly on mine.
It works perfectly off the power door locks and has connectors just under the tailgate so that the tailgate can be removed.

See http://www.pace-edwards.com/powergate.asp for more info.

 

How much is this one, i cannot find pricing on the site.

 

I installed a Bully brand tailgate lock. Basically installation was a snap. Remove the T-30 Torx screws on the inspection cover on the tailgate, then an 8mm socket/ratchet to remove the latch. The price was about $25.00 and it looks factory!! I am VERY pleased!!