Hey all,

I am thinking on options for the replacement of my tailgate on my 89 4runner. The old one is rusted out pretty bad on the top outside and bottom inside panels. I am not really interested in just replacing the tailgate with another one from an auto-wrecker because that one will just rust out pretty soon as well. (Rust belt area - Ottawa, Canada) They cost between $550-850 Cdn. And they are not new, nor are they in completely rust-free excellent condition.
It was suggested to me by a friend to use the old tailgate as a mold to fabricate a fiberglass outershell. Or I could get a little wild and make a diamond plate outer shell.
I will not be keeping the motorized window either. I am thinking on replacing that with plexiglass and hinges or clips that could attach it to the cap.
If you have any good ideas or strategies, please let me know.
Thanks,
Mike

 

please dont do the plexiglass panel. it looks discusting. toyota fiberglass makes a fiberglass panel for the tailgate. its 120 plus shipping, the installation but u'll keep one more 4runner alive in good condition. if u dont do that, just take it to a body shop. or just spend the money. its worth it, and if u can fix the automatic rear window. the 4runner is a legend and the rear windows go, if u can fix it your truck is worth alot more. i just sold a stock yota wit a 3' BL and 31's for 4600. mind you it was rust free with brand new paint, but the tailgate worked, and he even mentioned that it was worth 1200 new... fix it please, or find someone that will. you'll regret it later.

 

Isn't this the 3'rd Gen forum?

 

www.toyota-fiberglass.com
Corey rocks, i get my stuff from him, he's on this forum too i think.