Swing-Out Tailgate Mod for the SL8

SlateModGarage

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I’ve been thinking it would be awesome to develop a swing-out tailgate option for the Slate—kind of like what you see on old Land Cruisers or Jeeps with spare tires. Instead of dropping down, the tailgate would swing open to the side on a hinge. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Pros:

• Easier access to the bed when towing a trailer (no tailgate to block you)

• Could be combined with storage modules or a mounted spare tire

• Opens up modular options—half swing, full swing, or barn-door dual swing

• Adds utility for off-road setups (built-in table, ladder access, etc.)

Cons:

• More complex latch and hinge system to develop

• Could require reinforcement to handle weight and road wear

• Might limit loading space if swing direction is blocked in tight areas

• Needs careful design to avoid interfering with taillights or sensors

Would love to hear what others think—anyone else into the idea of a swing-out tailgate option for the SL8?

Slate Auto Pickup Truck Swing-Out Tailgate Mod for the SL8 DC2417EB-0137-4B9A-8A38-F930CA65327B
 

Adam W

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Sliding barn doors are all the rage right now. Just need a 4' rail that sticks out the side. 😆

seriously though, a swing out tailgate wouldn't be for me, but it seems in line with Slate's DIY philosophy. Maybe all it would take would be an aftermarket hinge. Kids retrofit lambo doors on their cars, and this would probably be a simpler mechanism.
 

sodamo

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Probably the feature I miss most from my Honda Ridgeline. Would really like to see a 3rd party mod.
 

solartogo

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Interesting idea, especially for the SUV and cargo options, where it would be a pro, together with another option for swing out doors that might be able to use the same hinging mechanism.

A con, is that a folddown tailgate can extend the bed for longer loads, which wouldn't be possible with swing out doors.
 

solartogo

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Could be useful for some folks. Would like to see video of how that works.

Having standard tailgate and ability to switch to swing out, if relatively easy, could be better overall for different use cases. Likewise for SUV and cargo, folddown & up, or door options, might both be useful for some.
 

sodamo

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Could be useful for some folks. Would like to see video of how that works.

Having standard tailgate and ability to switch to swing out, if relatively easy, could be better overall for different use cases. Likewise for SUV and cargo, folddown & up, or door options, might both be useful for some.
like the Honda Ridgeline. Miss that feature.
 

Whitesands

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Could be useful for some folks. Would like to see video of how that works.

Having standard tailgate and ability to switch to swing out, if relatively easy, could be better overall for different use cases. Likewise for SUV and cargo, folddown & up, or door options, might both be useful for some.
That tailgate picture is of the Canoo pickup tailgate. There are videos of it in action (cgi action though) where the tailgate opens in two then the extender slides out and there is a fold-up section which completes the end. The whole assembly adds 2 feet to the bed length. I have no idea how they intended to secure it like that.

I think most brands just add a fold-up flap on the tailgate to secure longer loads in the bed.
 
 
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