Looks like I might be getting an ATV, and likely to be a slightly larger one and I don't think the the tailgate will close all the way based on some quick measurements. So if the tailgate won't close all the way, I can't tow my travel trailer with the tailgate down, what options exist?I know I can take the tailgate off as one option, but that isn't always the nest option as I need a locking bed when I get to my destination. Is there a way to partially raise/close the tailgate and secure it part way up so its safely out of the way?An expensive over the rail cargo system isn't an option at this point. Any other thoughts would be appreciated.

With TT hooked up you would need real good measurements for how open tailgate can be WITHOUT interference with TT (tongue jack etc)Then go to junk yard and get another set of tailgate cables that support it when open. Mod/shorten those cables to hold tailgate open just far enough.Swap mod cables with OEM cables and vice versa as neededORRelocate tongue jack etc so no interferenceORStand ATV UP in bed and close tailgate

There are shortened cables/arms that you can buy aftermarket to keep the gate partially closed. https://www.dgmtailgatesupport.com/gallery/tailgate-product-photos/

They make truck bed racks where the atv sits sideways on top of the bed rails per say up against the cab. They also make racks where your drive up and the front wheels sit above the rear window up on top of the truck. Either one would have the atv well in front of the tailgate.

Tons of options. Some quads will fit with the gate closed. You can take the tail gate off. You can close it partially and run a strap from he rack of the quad down to the hitch to keep the gate closed. You can use a riser in the bed. You can run a sled deck.

Old Biscuit is explaining something like this. But instead of getting shorter cables, I just wrapped mine over the top of that locking bolt that sticks out of the side. Shorter cables is a safer bet but we did this multiple times, including a 1200 miles round trip to Disneyworld with no problems at all.

Hauling ATV in bed and towing TT | Good Sam Community

STANG23L
Explorer
Feb 13, 2017
One solution I may be putting on my camper for next season. Just so I can open my tailgate with out putting a bigger dent in it.

An adjustable trailer jack seems like a slick way to do it.
2012Coleman
Explorer II
Feb 13, 2017
Take the tailgate off - put it in the TT.
nevadanick
Explorer
Feb 11, 2017
Hook the tailgate cables over the posts that the gate latches to. Forgot to add thats its the lowest cost option.
Cad3dc
Explorer
Feb 10, 2017
As some have suggested, throw some ramps behind the cab. Worked flawlessly for me for years while towing my TT with shortbed truck.
GWolfe
Explorer
Feb 10, 2017
I did the ratchet strap thing as well when I had my old truck with the 5'6" bed. ATV just barely fits in this one but I can shut the tailgate.

Like justaboutretired mentioned, watch your weights although I think you will be fine. I'm about 100 lbs under on my truck and its a 1500, looks like you have a 2500 but a much bigger trailer as well.
MeandMyLabs
Explorer
Feb 10, 2017
A buddy of mine uses car ramps to raise his front wheels of the ATV right behind the cab of his truck. This allows him to close the tailgate but he is on his second rear cab glass. The bumper on the front of the ATV made contact with the glass when he was loading. Pretty funny now but not at the time.

I use straps to hold my tailgate about 2-3 inches from being closed and tight against the rear atv tires (6.5 ft truck bed). I have done this for years on 3 different trucks without problems.
justaboutretire
Explorer
Feb 10, 2017
ATV would be a lot of fun. I remember those days. I myself would make a calculation of your payload of the truck. ATV weight, trailer hitch weight, passenger weights, fuel and any gear and equipment to load the ATV in the bed just to ensure you will not go over the GVWR of your truck. If you are still within limits, go for it and have fun.
Bill
SouthpawHD
Explorer
Feb 10, 2017
Good ideas, thanks.

And thanks for the heads-up about then front window! I'll be sure to watch that carefully.
drmopar
Explorer
Feb 09, 2017
Depending on the weight, you may find a longer slide in with ball to extend enough to clear. I had to do that with my car trailer so my tailgate would not hit the jack. It was only 3 inches longer. Now I have enough clearance.
Txsurfer
Explorer
Feb 09, 2017
Scooter86 wrote:
cbshoestring wrote:
Txsurfer wrote:

here you go

Granted I have a cheap tri-fold ramp I bought at Harbour Freight, BUT backing out of the bed, down those ramps, raises my blood pressure. Backing of the bed rails would put me over the top.

Speaking of OVER THE TOP...I like having the security of a tool box to run into if I load it too hot and don't stop. The thought of driving OFF the other bed rail is a bit much for me.

Try doing it with a side by side where you have almost zero visibility behind and below you. Ramps have never really given me the heebie jeebies though. I would back off that truck with no qualms. Getting down off the bed once the quad is secured might be another story though...

Come on guys - evidently you've never ridden a motocross bike up a 6" ramp before.. you don't stop halfway for sure..

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Hauling ATV in bed and towing TT

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