If you own a Volkswagen T5 van, you may be looking to upgrade its functionality and convenience One popular modification that many T5 owners consider is a tailgate conversion By converting your T5 from barn doors to a tailgate, you can significantly improve access to the rear of your van and add a touch of style to your vehicle In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about VW T5 tailgate conversion.
Why Convert to a Tailgate?
There are several reasons why T5 owners choose to convert their barn doors to a tailgate One of the primary advantages of a tailgate is the improved accessibility it offers With a tailgate, you can easily open and close the rear door with one hand, making it much more convenient when loading and unloading your van Additionally, a tailgate provides better shelter from the elements when accessing the rear of the vehicle, keeping you and your cargo dry in rainy weather.
Another benefit of a tailgate conversion is the aesthetic appeal it adds to your T5 Many T5 owners find that a tailgate gives their van a sleek and modern look, enhancing its overall appearance Whether you are using your van for work or leisure, a tailgate can make your T5 stand out from the crowd.
What You Need for a VW T5 Tailgate Conversion
Converting your T5 from barn doors to a tailgate is a relatively straightforward process, but it does require some specific components Here is a list of items you will need for a VW T5 tailgate conversion:
1 Tailgate – The most critical component of the conversion is, of course, the tailgate itself You can purchase a new or used tailgate from a reputable supplier or salvage yard Make sure to choose a tailgate that is compatible with your T5 model year.
2 Tailgate Struts – You will need a set of tailgate struts to support the weight of the tailgate and keep it securely in place when open These struts should be specially designed for the T5 model to ensure a proper fit.
3 Wiring Harness – Depending on the features of your T5, you may need to install a new wiring harness to connect the tailgate to the vehicle’s electrical system This harness will allow you to operate the tailgate’s locking mechanism, lights, and other functions seamlessly.
4 vw t5 tailgate conversion. Trim Pieces – To complete the conversion and give your T5 a polished look, you may need to purchase additional trim pieces or seals to fill the gaps left by the removal of the barn doors.
The Conversion Process
Once you have gathered all the necessary components, you can begin the process of converting your T5 to a tailgate The steps involved in the conversion may vary slightly depending on your T5 model year and the specific components you are using, but the general process is as follows:
1 Remove the Barn Doors – Start by removing the existing barn doors from your T5 This typically involves unscrewing the hinges and lifting the doors off the vehicle.
2 Install the Tailgate – Carefully align the new tailgate with the mounting points on your T5 and secure it in place using the appropriate hardware Make sure the tailgate is properly centered and level before tightening the mounting bolts.
3 Attach the Struts – Install the tailgate struts according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring that they are securely attached to both the tailgate and the van.
4 Connect the Wiring Harness – If necessary, connect the new wiring harness to the tailgate and the vehicle’s electrical system Test the functionality of the tailgate’s lights, lock, and other features to ensure everything is working correctly.
5 Add Trim Pieces – Finally, install any additional trim pieces or seals to cover any gaps left by the barn doors and give your T5 a finished look.
Overall, converting your T5 to a tailgate is a rewarding project that can enhance the functionality and appearance of your van With the right components and a bit of know-how, you can transform your T5 into a more convenient and stylish vehicle that will serve you well for years to come So, if you’re looking to take your T5 to the next level, consider a tailgate conversion and enjoy the benefits it has to offer
In conclusion, a VW T5 tailgate conversion is a popular modification among T5 owners looking to improve access to the rear of their vans and add a touch of style to their vehicles With the right components and a bit of know-how, you can convert your T5 from barn doors to a tailgate and enjoy the increased convenience and aesthetic appeal it provides So, if you’re ready to take your T5 to the next level, consider a tailgate conversion and see the difference it can make in your van.