Affordable Tailgate Protection From Theft: Hose Clamp Hack Pickup Trucks

tacomel · 2025-08-27T16:56:08+00:00

I picked up the OEM skid plates while parts/accessories are on sale (and free shipping). The front skid plate is from the new Land cruiser but it also fits the Tacoma - PT228-60242. The transfer case skid plate is PT228-35247. The skids are stainless steel and while not the thickest l, approximately 1/10th if an inch, for my use they are going to be more than adequate and way better than the flimsy plastic stock pieces.

TrdMarkey

Member

Aug 6, 2025

I’ve seen some owners putting a stainless steel hose clamp on their truck’s tailgate. Asked one owner, and he said he's been doing so for the past 38 years on all the trucks he has owned. Apparently, it helps with the security of your tailgate.

I guess most delinquents are opportunists and are not prepared to remove this. Thinking of adding it to my tailgate too. It'd be the same, just I plan to mount it 180° so it’s a little trickier for them to get to.

I remember one certain period where a ton of tailgates were reported stolen. I don’t think it’s as big an issue with the 4th gen, but with the gen3 it was a pretty big issue. The bad thing is they cut the cable for the rear camera when they take the tailgate. Ends up being a very expensive part to replace.