Tailgate Locks

[Steve X]

Just purchased a 2011 Ram Outdoorsman. When I close the tailgate, it locks EVERY SINGLE TIME.

Very annoying. Dealership wants $600 to replace latch and parts. Seems a bit steep.

Any input?

Thanks

 

[U&A]

Find the parts on ebay


Sent while firmly grasping my redline lubed RAM [emoji231]

 

[crash68]

If the tailgate is locking itself, it's probably the handle assembly. I would find out how much a replacement is from AllMoparParts.com

 

[mtofell]

If it's at all like my 2014, open the panel on the tailgate (facing upward when the gate is open - torx screws if I remember right) and unplug the wire harness to the lock. I did this about 20 minutes after buying my truck 6 years ago and it's worked perfectly.

 

[Random_Walk]

rockauto will carry all the parts you need, and for pretty stinkin' cheap...

 

[Shiva]

I don't mind it self locking at all. My dad had his tailgate stolen on a main street in a city in broad day light.
What's worse?
Having to unlock it or put out $1000 for a new one?
Only you can make that choice.
Anyone want to know how to make it harder to steal?
I'll take pics of my mod and post it under 'stop tailgate theft' later today when daylight finally breaks.

 

[crash68]

Anyone want to know how to make it harder to steal?
I'll take pics of my mod and post it under 'stop tailgate theft' later today when daylight finally breaks.

A 44mm stainless steel gear clamp (hose clamp) around the right side hinge will slow unauthorized "borrowing" and keep the tailgate from popping off if something gets pinched in the slot between the bed/gate

 

[Shiva]

A 44mm stainless steel gear clamp (hose clamp) around the right side hinge will slow unauthorized "borrowing" and keep the tailgate from popping off if something gets pinched in the slot between the bed/gate

You beat me to it. Same thing i did and wrapped some EPDM roofing rubber between the clamp and tailgate socket so the paint doesn't get chewed up.
Beveled the clamp screw slot and rounded the hex head facets.
Try getting that off on a dark night peeps!
I know how to do it though. Stud welder and a 1/4-20 stainless steel stud. Your average thief doesn't have those in their back pocket.