Looking to remove Tailgate and Tonneau Vault Cover

[CTInProcess]

It should be noted, that the tailgate and cover probably add a bunch of rigidity to the specs of the vehicle.

Great point!!

 

[Keeney]

Usually people remove the tailgate from their old pickup because it gets damaged beyond usefulness (and perhaps falls off).
Not sure if there are other good reasons to do that.

But there are people on the forum who may be interested in the takeoff as a replacement for their damaged tailgate.

 

[ddmitch1]

How hard is it to dismantle get rid of the tonneau cover mechanism? Would I just be better off leaving it open al the time. I’m looking to get rid of the Tailgate and just throw in a net tailgate permanently. Like this:

Wondering if Tesla will eventually offer this option.

How hard is it to dismantle get rid of the tonneau cover mechanism? Would I just be better off leaving it open al the time. I’m looking to get rid of the Tailgate and just throw in a net tailgate permanently. Like this:

Wondering if Tesla will eventually offer this option.

I am also considering removing the tonneau cover for the following reasons:
1. I've install a sealed and lockable Urander vault area bed cap (for 1 person stealth camping in the vault area), so the tonneau is no longer needed (unless it is a structural part of the CT ?). I'm not a fan of the non stealth cap top tents that increase drag significantly.
2. Tonneau removal may allow cabin conditioned air (heat/AC) to travel (or be fan blown) into the vault area.
3. Vault area becomes longer (full 6') if tonneau storage area cover is removed. I know that HV wires and the air pressure tank area will need to be protected (and maybe sound deadened).
4. Removal of the two tonneau drive mechanisms and tonneau would reduce weight. The tonneau cover drive movement has become problematic on both my Cybertrucks and I have read of others having similar problems, with expensive and hard to get repair time at Tesla service centers. I live 4-1/2 hours from the nearest Tesla service center.
5. I am also considering removing the larger rear seat. This may allow securing a spare tire (and tools) in the rear seat area, instead of in the vault area (also reduces weight).
6. I am also wondering if the rear window glass could be removed, if it is not structural. This might allow a surfboard to be stored safely in the Urander covered vault area.