Upper tailgate paint protection suggestions

[UncleWillie]

Hello! I've had my Ranger about two weeks now and I'm starting to get familiar with the truck (and knit-picky design choices).

I've noticed the tailgate protection is a bit poorly designed. I've searched the forum with no luck, so I figured I'd ask if there are any suggestions for protecting the paint on the upper area of the tailgate. This area of the tailgate is just begging for paint damage when using the tailgate with work gloves, dirty hands, etc (see photos below).

I have my Line-X appointment to spray my bed next week and am considering praying this area. I don't think I would like the look of the bedliner being sprayed in this area though. I am also looking into a clear paint-protective film for this area to keep things looking nice. Does anyone have recommendations or suggestions for preventing abrasion in this area? Thanks!

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[AzScorpion]

I would just use the PPF. It will protect that area and you can always re-apply it if needed down the road. Plus it won't look like an after thought adding bed liner spray or something similar there.

 

[Bob902]

Dave is right use the PPF. If it gets all torn up, peel it off and put new on.

 

[Sanctus Rimor]

PPF or vinyl. Black with a red outline to match your lettering might look nice. Easy enough to remove if not. I'm trying to find black vinyl to match my hood.

 

[UncleWillie]

Thanks, folks! I like the idea of clear PPF and replacing as needed. Although I've considered the bed liner on the rocker panels, I don't think I'd like something so visually obvious on the tailgate. Much appreciated!

 

[DukeCanBuildit]

I’ll echo PPF - my ‘01 Ranger had it in a few places - long-lasting stuff - was like new until I traded it in 2019.

 

[Cabose-1]

What is ppf???? My tailgate is getting trashed in that area yes i am careful how i load and unload

And no tailgate damper. For better or worse

 

[AzScorpion]

What is ppf???? My tailgate is getting trashed in that area yes i am careful how i load and unload

And no tailgate damper. For better or worse

Is Paint Protective Film. Most will use it to protect areas like the hood or lower rockers from stone chips.

We'll have to have a long talk later about that damper! ?

 

[DukeCanBuildit]

……….aaaand we’re back. I was wondering when the idea that a damper cuts the damage in half would make an appearance - literally, only getting scratched up while closing. ?

 

[AzScorpion]

……….aaaand we’re back. I was wondering when the idea that a damper cuts the damage in half would make an appearance - literally, only getting scratched up while closing. ?

Well since we're already "there" if you have a damper at least lowering the tailgate would minimize you touching the tailgate. Just grab the latch and let her fly and watch it slowly lower itself. See, you'd be touching the paint a lot less and now there's less wear on it. ?Hmmm that might just be a good advertisement. ? ?

 

[tgRanger]

Some diy vinyl maybe?

 

[RangerCRF]

My first chip in the paint was this area.

 

[t4thfavor]

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