Driving with tailgate open

[Levi]

I am getting ready to move and was wondering if I drove with the tailgate open if it would mess up the hinges, I know the door is heavy so I didn't know about it. I'm only going about 15-20 blocks, so its not a long haul.

 

[Joey]

I would not recommend this, but if you can't avoid it. Then drive very slow.

Again I would not recommend this... not good on the hinges and you may get pulled over.

 

[cwdavis4]

I have done it a couple of times when moving such large items but it was for short distances (1-2 miles) and on side streets.

I would think technically the load on the hinges would be the same as long as you don't hit any holes, speed bumps, etc.

 

[Onionman]

Oh, man! I wouldn't do that. But, if you have to, drive real slow and careful like others have suggested, try to avoid bumps and potholes, and remove the spare tire from the door to reduce the amount of weight hanging on the hinges.

 

[disco_fever]

I would think technically the load on the hinges would be the same as long as you don't hit any holes, speed bumps, etc.

the load would definitely be a lot more, the weight of the door would be the same. But because its not secured on all sides(especially the latch side) it will act like a giant lever on the hinges.

bad idea.

good excuse to get a rack

 

[nosivad_bor]

take the hinges and door off if you must do it.

 

[cwdavis4]

Out of curiosity and definitely not trying to start an argument, would the load on the hinges be different from an open tailgate that is at a stand-still (ie parked) vs driving. Assume no bumps or wind force.

I would think they are the same but I'm not a mech / civil engr.

 

[azarmadillo]

Ask to borrow your buddy's Range Rover with a real tail gate.

 

[Timmy!!!!!!!]

If you do it take the spare tire off. That will get rid of most of the weight.