So I just installed the Dee Zee Tailgate assist and had the idea to add an actuator to open the tailgate from remotely. Anybody thought about doing this before?

I think it would be somewhat simple to do with the use of a actuator by the lock mechanism, but the one thing I was thinking about is how to trigger it. Another remote on keychain would work or even using the factory keychain and have something (such as a prorammable electronic controller) that would count how many times you pushed the unlock button.


EDIT 1-18-13: Clarification. I meant to actually open the tailgate and let it descend remotely.

Just throwing this idea out.

-Bennett

 

If you have a hot rod shop in your vicinity, they do this all the time when they shave the door handles on customs.....they should easily be able to do this for you if this is your desire......may not be cheap, but it would be pretty cool to see people's faces as the tailgate lowers itself as you walk toward the truck!

 

It's been done many times... Look it up.

 

+1 - MANY MANY times.

 

+2 - MANY MANY MANY times.

 

Just did a search... Saw there many entries on making it lock/unlock. But none with making it actually open and drop down. I'll keep looking.

 

Guess I misunderstood your original post. Great idea. The only thing I see that could be a issue is if you have a tonneau cover. Mine, for instance, closes tight on top of the tailgate. I really have to tug to get it past the seal.

Good luck!

 

My bad... I should have written it more clearly. I'll make a edit on my first post.

I have a tonneau cover from truxedo (low profile model) and it currently lets me open the gate without having to lift it up first. I am just trying to figure out a way to integrate with the factory controller to count the unlock presses. So maybe three unlock presses would open the tailgate. Would be nice when your hands are all full and you can't really grab the lever.

My other thought is maybe I can hook up the actuator in such a way I could leave the gate always locked and then never have the need to unlock it.

-Bennett

 

No worries