Tailgate Protector
The tailgate is a gate at the back of utilitarian pickup trucks with hinges in either the bottom or the top edge. When unlatched, the tailgates can be lowered to enable access to the pickup bed. The leading edge of the tailgates are subjected to heavy hammering during their operational lifespan, and are normally the first component of a trucker or SUV to withstand cosmetic and physical damage. Since majority of the loading/unloading of the goods have to be surpassed through the unlatched tailgate itself, pickup truck owners often use tailgate protectors to ensure longevity of their tailgates, which oftentimes determine the overall aesthetics of a truck.
Tailgate protectors have essentially a solitary purpose as the name suggests – protecting the tailgate from wearing and tearing. The tailgates endure a good amount of beating every time goods are docked or unloaded, and the finishing and physical stability can be severely depleted if tailgate protectors are not used.
Tailgate protectors save the tailgates from scratches and dents, thus helping to retain the finishing – and eventually protecting the tailgates from long term structural damages. Despite acting as an active cushion to protect the tailgates – the tailgate protectors can add a certain level of styling element to the overall outlook of the truck. Stock tailgates are generally blunt in their outlook, and the protectors can help them look attractive with their usually common intensive stainless steel detailing. Tailgate protectors come in various shapes and models, and can be made from glossy aluminum or carbon fiber as well. The flashy edges give the trucks a unique touch, and can help the owners get a more desired outlook of their ride.
Despite ensuring cosmetic and structural longevity, tailgate protectors also passively protect the tailgates from rusting. During their normal mode of operation, the tailgates might get scratched during the loading/unloading of goods, which might accidentally expose some of the metal below the paint. If such damages aren’t detected or simply left untreated, the metal begins to rust as oxidation occurs. Tailgate protectors can intervene in such a possible chain of events, and can prevent the tailgates from any possible scratches that would initiate the rusting process in the first place.
Tailgate protectors are generally made of stainless steel or aluminum, and offer one of the most affordable materials to be used as the tailgate protector. The tailgate protectors generally comprise tread patterns ensuring maximum grip, which also gives the truck a more rugged and shiny outlook. Tailgate protectors are manufactured according to specific car models, while the price ranges from $100 up to $300. The installation process is generally very simple, however a few steps described in the next paragraph onwards will explain the process in adequate details:
The tailgate’s top edge should be carefully cleaned with rubbing alcohol to thoroughly clean the surface over which the protector would be placed. The protective tape of the tailgate protector then should be taken off and the protector being placed over the tailgate and firmly pushed until it is positioned properly. If, however, the tailgate protector screws into position, the protector should be firmly pushed over the tailgate’s top edge and an electric drill can be used to drill through the holes for mounting of the protector onto the tailgate. Once the drilling is complete, the screws are firmly tightened, although too much pressure shouldn’t be applied. A rust inhibiting primer maybe used to protect the drilled holes from rusting and corrosion prior to attaching the screws to the tailgate. If done properly, the entire installation process of the tailgate protectors can be completed under an hour.
The tailgate protector can be cleaned with mild soap and can be polished with automotive wax to retain the shine.
