Tacoma Tailgate Troubles: No Manual Lever?

MSJ Pop Up Topper - A Wallet Friendly Camper

RoadSoda · 2026-03-04T19:38:55+00:00

There are many reputable camper companies to choose from when building out a Toyota Tacoma, but in recent years, toppers and campers have become increasingly expensive. Finding a budget-friendly option—especially one that aligns with a specific aesthetic or build vision—can be a real challenge. When planning this build, I knew I wanted a camper but wasn’t interested in overspending. In 2024, I came across MSJ Off Road through a listing on Facebook Marketplace. They had a 3rd Gen Tacoma camper advertised for $5,000, which immediately caught my attention. After reaching out, I learned it was the very first camper they had built. I decided to move forward with it and drove from Utah to Mesa, Arizona to pick it up—becoming their first official customer. As with any first-generation product, there were a few issues that needed refinement, but given the price point, I was comfortable working through those early-stage details. What stood out most to me was the team behind the brand. Their passion, transparency, and commitment to improving their product left a strong impression. Unfortunately, not long after installing the camper, my 2023 Tacoma was totaled in an accident when another driver pulled out in front of me. That meant starting the build process over from scratch. When I purchased my 4th Gen Tacoma, I didn’t hesitate to return to MSJ Off Road. By that point, the company had evolved significantly. Their design, build quality, and overall execution had progressed into what I would consider a truly competitive product in the market. Last month, I picked up my new camper, and I couldn’t be happier with the build quality and functionality (especially at its price point). The refinement compared to their earlier model shows how far they’ve come as a company. If you’re considering a topper or camper for your Tacoma build and want an option that balances quality, function, and value, MSJ Off Road is worth a look. I’ll be sharing a full walkthrough and detailed review of the camper soon on Instagram at @__RoadSoda__ Link to MSJ below... https://msjoff-road.com/ Feel free to reach out with any questions about the camper!

TrdMarkey

Member

Jul 4, 2025

It's neat having five ways to open your tailgate, but then you find out there's no manual lever, haha.

I'll try disconnecting the battery tomorrow; first oil change is due soon anyway. Still, it's a pretty silly issue.

Anyone else dealing with tailgate troubles? It's really bumming out my weekend vibes.

Tacoma Tailgate Troubles: No Manual Lever?

TrdMarkey

Member

Recent

MSJ Pop Up Topper - A Wallet Friendly Camper

This is what you have to do when the welded nuts inside the frame break off!

2025 TRD Pro Mud Bath Build Thread - @mudbathmania IG

Do You Really Need Race Truck Parts on a Daily Driver? Heim Joints vs Flex Joints

COBB Accessport Uninstall & Reinstall — Prepping for 30K Dealer Service (Trailhunter)

Artic Camo Custom Seat Covers From PRP

Show Me Your Roof Rack Setups!

Installed (Before/After Measurements) & Initial Impressions - ARB OME MT64

Diode Dynamic's SS3 Pro Pod Lights, Honest Thoughts - Install & Performance

PRP Seat Covers - Bold Retro Color Scheme (Pink, Blue, Green, White)

Custom Black Imitation GatorSkin Vinyl Seat Covers From PRP

One Year with the CBI Covert Bumper: Honest Review, Winch Fitment Issues & Install Resources

Similar threads