How can you say this, then say that the weld looks like a "band-aid"?
I am also hearing that the new, welded tailgates have also got extra internal bracing on top of all the extra welds.
I'd be interested in hearing more about how the tailgates are weak.
All I have seen is the problem with the corner as I am still not convinced the one that folded under a golf cart is not just a fluke or abuse.
So if the weld has fixed the corner from separating and the braces are allowing for more weight, what else is weak about it?
I have loaded and unloaded my motorcycles dozens of times, including my 520lb XS850SG, my 220lb YZ450F, and 215lb YZ250F.
I have loaded and unloaded close to 2000lbs of fencing material.
I have loaded and unloaded 1800lbs of concrete, 30 - 60lb bags.
I have moved and unloaded a 1500lb pallet of Bamboo flooring.
I have loaded and unloaded a 250lb Refrigerator, leaving it on the edge of the tailgate for a few hours till a neighbor got home to help me lift it down.
The tailgate has been a work bench for many projects.
I have even been to the grocery store a few times.
After all that with my 220lb a$$ on it and more, I still have no damage to my tailgate.
I think I use and abuse mine as a truck more than most.
That said, I bet I could go out right now, get up on the tailgate, stomp on the corner and get it to start separating.
When mine becomes damaged, Toyota will replace it with the new version.
Mine will become damaged before the warranty is up, I am sure of it.
I took a good look at the tailgates on my buddies 2007 Dodge 1/2 ton, my dad's 2007 Ford F350, and another friend's 2005 F350 and compared them to my tailgate, and the new Tundra tailgate.
I can see that the new style tailgate is every bit as strong as theirs.
So please, don't take me as being rude, just enlighten me.
What are your's or anyone's fear at this point?
The seam separates, Toyota fixed it, what else is there?