Tailgate hits ARB bumper

[GoISU]

I came up empty using the search function, here's my issue:

I have a rear ARB non swingout rear bumper. My tailgate (2013) flexes enough to make light contact with the bumper when I sit on the tailgate or use it to crawl into the rear cargo area. I am a big guy, 300+ lbs so I am not surprised by this. My question is: Can I adjust the ARB rear bumper up and down to get maybe a 1/4" more room? I bought the truck with the rear bumper installed so I'm hoping someone here knows if there's some wiggle room built in to level the bumper or adjust it up and down before tightening the mounting bolts.
Does anyone think that new cables would help? Perhaps mine are a little stretched out? Is there a way to order slightly shorter cables? Could I shorten mine somehow? I don't think this will help, just hoping the simplest fix may work. I'd love to be able to park my big ass on the tailgate without worrying about messing up the paint. If you've ever seen a pickup truck with a damaged bumper and a line of scratches where the tailgate makes contact with the step part of the bumper that's what I'm trying to avoid.

TIA,
Kevin

 

[gaijin]

Any chance you could post pics of your rear bumper - both tailgate up and tailgate down? That may help diagnose your problem.

TIA

 

[Haggis]

I have the same year and rear bumper as you. Mine is very, very close to hitting when I sit on it. I love the bumper but have the same worries.

 

[NLScooby]

I don't have a solution to your question but the quote from your father in your signature line had me literally laugh out loud (at work).
I was expecting that line to come from a Clint Eastwood movie where he's "interrogating" someone.....

 

[GoISU]

I'll see what I can come up with for pictures. It looks Ike it's installed properly but I can't even get a pinkey finger in between the bumper and tailgate without my ass on the tailgate. I'm guessing the Australians just didn't account for the ever expanding American.

If nothing else let this serve as a cautionary tale.

 

[shelby95]

I imagine someone can fab up a simple hinge with metal plates pivoting about a fulcrum that will prevent the stretch allowed by the cables.

 

[cruiseroutfit]

There is a shimming procedure to get adequate clearance. Kits include said shims. Shops don't always measure for them.

Here is the instructions for your bumper. Late night at the shop means answers

 

[GoISU]

Awesome thanks for posting the instructions. I found receipts and instructions in the glove box for the front bumper but not the rear when I took delivery.

I'd have to diet and remove at least two limbs to get under 100 kg in weight. Thanks again for posting the instructions, I'm guessing the shims were left out of the install, I have less clearance then shown in the pic with an unloaded tailgate.

 

[cruiseroutfit]

We likely have some spare shims if you're in need.