Looking for Feedback on WagonGear's Tailgate Lid

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atomicshawn

atomicshawn

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Always looking for ways to keep gear organized and accessible. I like Kevin Rowland's tailgate lid but kinda spendy and I'm trying to decide if cost is ≤ benefit. So wondering how much storage space is gained with the lid, what you can/can't store, problems with rattles or obstruction of the tailgate latch mechanism or whatever, overall general opinion. Pictures of how the space is being used would help me get an idea of capacity and utility. I appreciate any information.

Thanks,

Shawn
 
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Speaking for the 80 series, one of the best purchases I've made. Holds my shotgun, folding shovel, ax, misc tools, rags, maglight, straps and more. No noise or rattling of the stuff inside. Doubles as a dining table or counter when camping. I'm very happy, except now it is a bit heavy - The GF would rather not be responsible for lowering and lifting the gate.
 
I have it for the LX and his side panels for my 60. I like it because of the door for one. I go (or at least use to go) snowboarding a lot. The tailgate carpet gets really wet and if someone puts their knee in the center of the tailgate it WILL bend. This lid gets rig of that issue forever. On top of that I got the stainless locking handles to keep out...well...the unreasonable search and seizure :flipoff2:

But it does hold a lot of stuff. Mainly all of my recovery gear that I don't use very often at all. That being said, if you put too much crap in there it will make the tailgate pretty heavy for the wifey.
 
I bought my 80 with it installed. I love it! I store my recovery gear in it, oil, jumper cables, TP, ect. It's a very well made product. With that said, had my 80 not have come with it, I would not spend the money for it.
 
Here are some pics of mine.
image-1165431298.webp
image-473237062.webp
 
Thanks for the feedback

MINO said:
...except now it is a bit heavy - The GF would rather not be responsible for lowering and lifting the gate.
Click to expand...

Hmmm... never thought about issues with added weight. Something to consider. Anyone else see this as a problem? I'm sure it depends on what you store. I was thinking tools and/or fluids (rather heavy stuff), maybe first aid kit or some recovery gear (essential recovery gear I keep in the center console... I've found on more than one occasion the rear is inaccessible when you need a tug).

Appreciate the photos LXTACY...

Anyone have pics to share of how you use/organize the space?
 
I keep recovery gear, some fluids, some spare parts and it does get heavy. I think it's a clean, perfect storage solution, that I have no regrets doing.
 
I've got two friends with them and both rave about it. Biggest advantage I see personally is storing recovery gear where its easily accessible all the time. Well unless your pinned up against something in the rear. But it beats digging through your gear for a strap. One of my neighbors likes to store food items in his. Keeps the bread from getting smashed. Quality of the product is top notch. Very well thought out and built solid with an attention to detail.
 
The amount of space you get is really great. It isnt enough to store all of your gear obviously, but you can now have your recovery gear in one place, and much of your tools depending on what you take with you.

Mine stores recovery straps, wrenches, fluids, small propane bottles, tie down straps and a bunch of other junk. The simple fact is, whatever you put in there is really convenient to access, a real plus when your stuck on a hill or in waist deep mud at the end of a long day, and if you dont need to take a ton of stuff with as in a daily driver, you can have your basic gear without compromising cabin space or noise.

Having said that, I have relocated my tree saver, gloves and winch remote to the driver door pocket. Being stuck halfway up a hill where you risk losing traction and sliding backwards does not make having the basic winching equipment in the rear of the vehicle ideal. This way you can hold the brakes and pass the gear to your winch bitch or out the window to someone from another vehicle.
 
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I just received mine in the mail this afternoon. I see where the cost is now. Pictures don't do justice. Kevin builds a high quality unit. I can wait to get it installed this weekend. Fwiw, I suggest getting the grip plastic. I'll post pictures as soon as I get it installed.
 
what sound deadener did you guys use when you installed? i need to get some.
 
The WG lids are a great storage addition. I had one on my 80 and have since acquired one of the Beta lids for my 100 to test out.

Plenty of space, no lighting wires like the 100 and the 80s tailgate linkage is pretty stout. Adding soundproofing is a great idea to stop the rattles but also to keep heavier stuff from denting the tailgate shell.

Always fun getting to cut huge holes in your truck.

Sent from my iPhone using IH8MUD
 
I love mine.
However, to all those who place recovery gear in the tailgate, or for those who want the tail gate for recovery gear. Don't!!
It is a great spot for recovery gear IF you get stuck on the road. However, the few times I got stuck, it became very impractical to get to the recovery gear. Especially if you have a rear bumper with swing arms.

I mainly store things I need easy access to. It is great place for:
10mm,12mm,14mm and 17mm socket and wrenches
21mm for lug nuts.
screwdrivers
tire deflators
first aid
jump cables
spare lug nut
small 110 inverter
extra shackles
extra flashlight
I use mine all the times, numerous opening and closing of the lead.
It has not deteriorated.

As far as mods go, it is one of my favorite. I can't imaging being without it.
 
I really do appreciate mine. I keep a bunch of my fly fishing gear stored as well as gloves, and misc. stuff. Makes the back of the vehicle much cleaner. It will also fit a shotgun cleanly :D
 
Just wanted to update with a very minor issue I ran into. I wanted to remove the lid so I could repaint the tailgate with truckbed liner. The allen-head bolts would back off a little then stop due to the loctite. On a normal hex bolt, I'd probably be able to work through it. However, my allen socket just strips when I tried to. Think I'll mask the lid off instead.
 
Corbet said:
...Biggest advantage I see personally is storing recovery gear where its easily accessible all the time. Well unless your pinned up against something in the rear...
Click to expand...

cody c said:
...I have relocated my tree saver, gloves and winch remote to the driver door pocket. Being stuck halfway up a hill where you risk losing traction and sliding backwards does not make having the basic winching equipment in the rear of the vehicle ideal. This way you can hold the brakes and pass the gear to your winch bitch or out the window to someone from another vehicle.
Click to expand...

rhyary said:
...to all those who place recovery gear in the tailgate, or for those who want the tail gate for recovery gear. Don't!!
It is a great spot for recovery gear IF you get stuck on the road. However, the few times I got stuck, it became very impractical to get to the recovery gear. Especially if you have a rear bumper with swing arms...
Click to expand...

^^^All good advise and reasons I keep the essentials in the cab too.

Nemo said:
I really do appreciate mine. I keep a bunch of my fly fishing gear stored as well as gloves, and misc. stuff. Makes the back of the vehicle much cleaner. It will also fit a shotgun cleanly :D
Click to expand...

^^^Nice to know I'm not the only retentive one.
I'm still interested in seeing how others keep their junk organized back there if anyone is willing to post pics. (i'm curious to see how that shotgun fits)
I appreciate everbody's feedback on this cool little item, it's moving quickly to the top of the list.
 
It is a great product, but if you are asking this question because you have a tight budget, you can make the same cuts and build your own much cheaper. Granted it will be rougher, but it depends on your personality.
 
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