5th Wheel Tailgate with Insert

[WillB5]

Does anyone know of a reputable source for a good 5th wheel tailgate, where a center insert is available to close off the opening for security? I have seen the plastic Stromberg Carlson ones, but prefer a metal tailgate. There are some Custom Flow units on Amazon, but none for my 2016 F250.
My wife and I have discussed the pros and cons of the louvered tailgates, and have decided to go ahead with one, just to have the maximum security and flexibility. I am the type of person that will damage my stock tailgate sooner or later if I try to leave it on while hitching. Thanks!
Will
2016 F250
2018 KZ Sportsmen Sportster 311TH10

[WillB5]

Thanks bpounds for the pictures. I hope I can find a Custom Flow unit, it looks great. I have't heard from Makario's yet and need to check back with them.

And thanks to Dtank for the alert on stolen tailgates. Living here in quiet small town Indiana I don't think of tailgate theft, but it would be a good idea to lock the tailgate itself on when in dubious territory.

[Dtank]

when I was looking for a tailgate - I had found *one* mgr who
made a gate with a removable matching insert (not the one shown by a poster).

Unfortunately, it's been a while - don't recall the mgr.

BTW - You can make your own insert (cheap & easy) not locking, but will keep your treasures out of sight.

Stock (factory) tailgates:
Besides the obvious "handy" features, one of the main reasons to go to an aftermarket TG (in the past) was factory "non-locking".
Major non-traceable, high demand, EASY theft item!

Be sure you are happy with whatever security measures you have for your factory gate.
Factory TGs = *WAY* more valuable to thieves - than the stuff in the bed!
Replacements may still cost you serious $ - *after* ins deductible.

😉

[bpounds]

I have the Customflow. Very pleased with it.


Also have the Vee insert. I've only used it a couple of times. Not worth the $150 in my opinion. It does the job, but is poorly designed. Takes longer to install than it does to just swap tailgates. But if you think you will be towing your fiver somewhere, and then need to close the Vee off while you are touring around, you might want one. That's the only situation where it makes sense to me. Looks nice when installed.

[WillB5]

Thanks Rolland. I hadn't thought of the visibility factor when not towing, that's a good point. Since I am taking my time hopefully I can find a used one at a good price.
Will

[RollandB]

I’ve got a Cuatom Flow I’ve had for a number of years and am happy with it. Got it free from a buddy who changed trucks. It has held up well and I like the ease of hooking up without lowering it each time. I seriously doubt there is a signifivpcant MPG gain. The best part of the notch is the ability to see vehicles that are right behind you, especially when parking.

[WillB5]

Hi all, thanks for the replies. Here is what I have found:
I called Dee Zee and they no longer make the 5th wheel tailgates. Darn.
To answer HBillSmith regarding the rear view camera, Husky Liners does have a rear view camera bracket available for their tailgate, but they don't have the insert to close the center opening. I could probably make an insert without much trouble.
Thanks to md_procouple for the suggestion of the Stromberg Carlson, but as far as I've found the ones with the lock and center insert are plastic.
Rhagflo mentioned the Custom Flow models that look good. Does anyone have experience with CarID? The reviews I have seen of them are mixed at best.
Makario's RV lists the Custom Flow on their site. I phoned them and they are very helpful. They are checking with the manufacturer.
I think for now I'll follow Donn0128's lead and keep the stock tailgate on and just be careful. I have a nice bed cover on the way (Pace Edwards Switchblade) which should be a nice combo.
Thanks
Will

[donn0128]

Been towing for 13 years with a stock tailgate. No problem so far. No luck involved. Just need to learn a routine. With a locking bed cover I have the best of both worlds. Security and convenience

[rhagfo]

Might this work?

https://www.carid.com/custom-flow/elite-series-5th-wheel-tailgate.html

I managed to find a Custom Flow for my 2001 Ram on Craig’s List, For $100 love the fact it is steel, and can stand on it with the hitch sitting on it.

[md_procouple]

Stromberg /Carlson does make a locking louvered tailgate for your truck, because of the year of your truck you may want to call them. I put one on our truck last year and love it. It makes backing up to your 5'er so easy. Good Luck and Happy Camping !!

[hbillsmith]

dont you lose your rear camera when you do that?

[Old-Biscuit]

Dee Zee's makes one with optional metal powdered coated insert. Not sure IF they do for your F250

LINK