What is correct way to open and close tailgate / cargo cover?

[Dirk Pitt]

Hello,
Probably asked before, but can we do it one more time for all the newbies.

What is the correct procedure to follow to open and close tailgate / cargo cover to protect the weather seal the best from getting damaged? I have been told one method, open tailgate first, then cargo cover, reverse for closing? This may be the way to do it, but would like to confirm.

Thanks...........

[DakotaDocMartin]

Open lid, then tailgate. Close lid, then tailgate. That's the only way it can be or should be done.

[Marc NY]

Here is a scanned copy of the original warning label that comes with the SSR to instruct one in the proper procedure to close the cargo lid and tailgate.

[BlastfromPast]

Well, the "opening" side of the problem is easy - there's just one way possible!! (Open bed cover with either key fob or button in glovebox, and then tailgate if desired.)

To close: BED COVER FIRST - gently, and with both hands to avoid possible denting to top surface. Next, Tailgate - just like a regular pickup.

Next, drop the top and GO FOR A RIDE!!

Blast

[dingbat]

To open:

Press button on key fob
Squeeze fingers into 3/8" opening between lid and tailgate
Assist gas struts and lift lid manually
Make sure you did not scratch paint on tailgate with rings or other jewelery.
Wipe hands on stragetically placed rag in cargo bed to remove silicone grease residue from fingers.
Reach around and open tailgate

[Barakouda]

THe top gpes down first, thenthe gate.
This is the way the seals are designed to keep out water.
Even when you close the gate, keep an eye on the top seal as mine somehow got out of shape and did not go over the top of the gate. Rainwater got in.

[DOOPHUS]

Good question, Dirk

On "delivery day" for DOOPHUS back in July of 05, one of the prime "dos and don'ts" was NEVER CLOSE THE TAILGATE PRIOR TO THE DECK LID!

Bottom line . . . DECK LID FIRST . . . TAILGATE SECOND.

Good Luck,

Curt

! ! ! ! ! !

[41chevcoe]

I wish the Border Crossing Guards knew this proceedure........but they don't, I have asked to get out of the vehicle and do it for them but they do not want you to get out of the vehicle, so explain to them to gently close the top cover first, then gently close the tailgate, then you can proceed up the road and pull over to close it properly.

The Border Crossing Guards always ask you to open it....curiosity I think

[Beach potato]

Getting used to the right way to open and close the windows and cover will extend the life of the seals...ALSO I advise using a product for lube and protection of the seal/weather stripping. The best is Krytox and is made by Dupont and is a Fluorinated grease, about $40. Wurth has a rubbercare gel stick for $17 and 3M has a lubricant and preserver for about $17. It would be wise to use a dressing product that has a UV rating, such as Armorall. I always give the seals a wipe down with RainX and that really helps keep the things from leaking.

[Big Blue Ox]

To open the top lid, I push the key fob buttom. With my new LS Technologies gas struts my lid pops open like it did when new.

To open the tailgate, I reach in and pull the chrome handle up and lower carefully.

To close the top lid, I pull on three large ceramic beads my wife made as a child in Greece, which are held together by two knotted, two-foot black leather laces, both looped around the outside of the left latch hoop.

To close the tailgate I use the three-fingers-on-the-third brake light technique.