Have you ever wondered what that big door at the back of a truck is actually called? You know, the one that opens up and allows you to load and unload cargo with ease? Well, my friend, you’re in luck because I’m here to give you the lowdown. That big door is commonly referred to as the tailgate.
The tailgate of a truck is an essential component of any cargo-carrying vehicle. Its primary function is to provide easy access to the bed of the truck, allowing you to load and unload goods with minimal effort. Despite its seemingly simple design, the tailgate has come a long way since its inception over a century ago. Nowadays, it can be equipped with various features such as built-in speakers, hydraulic assist, and even a backup camera.
Now, you might be thinking, “how is this relevant to me?” Well, if you ever find yourself in need of hiring a truck for moving or transportation purposes, knowing the proper terminology can come in handy. It can also help you better communicate with the truck rental company and ensure that you get the most suitable vehicle for your needs. Plus, it’s always fun to expand your vocabulary, right? So, cheers to learning something new today – the tailgate of a truck.
Anatomy of a Truck
Before discussing the back door of a truck, it’s important to understand the different parts that make up a truck’s overall anatomy. Trucks are massive vehicles that are designed for hauling heavy loads over long distances. They are divided into three main sections: the cab, the chassis, and the cargo area.
The cab is the section of the truck where the driver sits and operates the vehicle. It contains the steering wheel, pedals, seats, and dashboard. The dashboard is the control center of the cab, and it contains various gauges, switches, and controls that the driver uses to monitor and operate the truck.
The chassis is the frame of the truck, and it provides the support and structure for the entire vehicle. It consists of a series of interconnected beams and cross-members that are designed to withstand heavy loads and rough terrain. The engine, transmission, wheels, and suspension system are all attached to the chassis.
The cargo area is the section of the truck where the goods are stored and transported. It can be either an open or closed space, depending on the type of cargo that is being transported. The cargo area is typically separated from the cab by a partition, and it can be accessed through a rear door or a side door.
What is the back door of a truck called?
The back door of a truck is called the tailgate. It is a hinged door that is located at the back of the cargo area. The tailgate can be opened and closed to allow access to the cargo area, and it can be locked to prevent theft or unauthorized access.
Parts of a tailgate
- Hinge – The hinge is the mechanism that allows the tailgate to swing open and closed. It is typically located on the side of the truck and is attached to both the chassis and the tailgate.
- Latch – The latch is the mechanism that secures the tailgate in the closed position. It is typically located in the center of the tailgate and can be locked with a key or a combination.
- Handle – The handle is the part of the tailgate that the driver uses to open and close the door. It is typically located on the exterior of the tailgate and can be either a lever or a knob.
Tailgate designs
Tailgates come in a variety of designs depending on the intended usage of the truck. Some tailgates are simple and utilitarian, while others are designed for specific purposes.
| Design | Description |
|---|---|
| Standard Tailgate | A simple tailgate that swings down from the back of the truck. It is most commonly found on pickup trucks and small cargo vans. |
| Barn Door Tailgate | A tailgate that is split in the middle. Each half can be opened independently, making it easier to load and unload cargo. |
| Drop-Down Tailgate | A tailgate that folds down rather than swinging out. It is commonly used on trailers and heavy-duty trucks. |
Types of Truck Doors
Truck doors are an essential element in the transportation business. They are designed to protect the cargo while in transit. There are different types of truck doors, and each serves its purpose. This article will discuss the various types of truck doors available in the market.
Roll-Up Doors
- Roll-up doors are the most popular type of truck doors used in the transportation industry.
- They roll up into a cylinder when opened, saving the space that swing-out doors require.
- They are commonly used in vans, box trucks, or trailers.
- Roll-up doors are usually made of steel, aluminum, or fiberglass and are most commonly manual, but they can be automated.
Swing-Out Doors
- Swing-out doors are used for larger trucks, such as semi-trailers, and flatbeds.
- They open outwards like a regular door.
- Swing-out doors can be mounted either on the side or the rear and are usually made of aluminum or steel.
- They are best for loading and unloading bulky or heavy items.
Barn Doors
Barn doors consist of two panels that open outward from the center.
- They are commonly used in trucks that make frequent stops, like a delivery truck.
- Barn doors provide easy access to the cargo area.
- They come in various materials, such as steel, aluminum, or wood, and can be either manual or automatic.
Curtain Side Doors
| Material Used | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| PVC-coated polyester | Lightweight and durable. It allows for easy access and loading. | High cost and requires specialized repair. |
| Vinyl-laminated polyester | It provides excellent temperature control and insulation. It can withstand harsh weather conditions. | It is heavy and difficult to repair. |
Curtain-side doors are used in trucks that require quick and easy access to the cargo. They are made of PVC-coated polyester or vinyl-laminated polyester materials and contain a movable curtain. The curtain slides along a track, making it easy to open and close. Curtain-side doors are suitable for trucks that have to make multiple stops and load and unload goods quickly.
In conclusion, each type of truck door has specific features that cater to different transportation needs. It is essential to understand the choice of door that suits the cargo and the truck’s specific functions.
Importance of a Back Door for Trucks
When it comes to trucks, the back door is a crucial component for a variety of reasons. From providing secure storage for cargo to easy access for loading and unloading goods, having a reliable back door can make all the difference in the efficiency and safety of your transportation operations. Here are three key reasons why the back door of a truck is so important:
- Security: A back door that is properly installed and maintained can keep your cargo safe and secure during transportation. This is especially important when carrying valuable or sensitive goods that require extra protection. Without a secure back door, your cargo could be at risk of theft or damage during transit.
- Convenience: A well-designed back door can make the loading and unloading of your cargo much easier and faster, reducing the time and effort required to complete these tasks. This can be particularly important for businesses that need to transport large quantities of goods on a regular basis, as it can help to minimize delays and increase productivity.
- Safety: In addition to providing security and convenience, a back door can also help to improve the safety of your transportation operations. By keeping your cargo contained and preventing it from shifting or falling out of the truck during transit, a back door can reduce the risk of accidents and injuries on the road.
Tips for Maintaining Your Truck’s Back Door
To ensure that your truck’s back door continues to function properly and provide optimal security and convenience, it’s important to take good care of it. Here are a few tips to help you maintain your back door:
- Regularly inspect the door and its components for signs of wear and damage, such as rust, corrosion, or loose hinges.
- Keep the door and its seals clean and free of debris to prevent leaks and damage to your cargo.
- Make any necessary repairs or replacements promptly to avoid further damage or safety hazards.
- Consider installing additional security features, such as locks or alarms, to further protect your cargo and deter theft.
Types of Back Doors for Trucks
Trucks come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and so do their back doors. Here are some of the most common types of back doors for trucks:
| Back Door Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Barn door | A two-piece door that swings open from the center and folds to the sides of the truck. |
| Roll-up door | A door that rolls up into a tight coil at the top of the truck, providing maximum headroom and easy access. |
| Liftgate | A hydraulic platform that lifts the cargo up to the level of the truck bed, providing easy loading and unloading. |
| Swing door | A single-piece door that swings open from one side of the truck. |
Each type of back door has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the specific needs of your business. Consider factors such as security, convenience, and cost when selecting the best type of back door for your truck.
Key Features of a Truck’s Back Door
Trucks are the engines that power the global economy, and their back doors are perhaps one of their most important features. The back door is the entry point for loading and unloading the truck, and it needs to be designed for maximum efficiency and safety. In this article, we’ll explore some of the key features of a truck’s back door that make it such an integral part of the truck’s overall design.
The Anatomy of a Back Door
- The Door Itself: The material for a truck’s back door has traditionally been plywood, but more modern doors today are made from aluminum or high-strength composites as they are lighter and stronger.
- The Hinges: Back doors need to be able to open smoothly and quickly, and their hinges play a key role in this. Heavy-duty hinges with grease fittings and regular maintenance checks can help ensure that the hinges continue to function smoothly over an extended period.
- The Lock Mechanism: In the past, most trucks relied on padlocks to secure their back doors. However, more advanced doors now integrate electronic locking systems that use smartkeys, keyless entry fobs, or biometric scanners and sensors for security reasons. Some systems also log when the door was accessed.
The Importance of a Sealed Back Door
A sealed back door is an essential feature that ensures that no debris or moisture gets into the trailer or truck bed. It helps to protect the cargo from external elements that could cause damage or spoilage. Additionally, a well-sealed door helps to lower the fuel consumption of the truck, thanks to improved aerodynamics.
Some back doors now use a patented sealing system that employs a continuous high-quality seal to enhance the sealing process. These sealing systems are designed to remain tight even when subjected to pressure changes due to elevation and temperature.
Load Rating and Load Securement
Another important feature of a truck’s back door is the load rating. The load rating is the maximum weight capacity that the back door can support, including the cargo. This rating is determined by various factors such as the strength of the hinges and door material.
Another critical aspect of the back door’s design is load securement. The cargo must be secured properly to prevent movement and damage, and there are various load securement devices designed to help with this, including straps and tie-downs.
| Load Securement Devices | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Straps | Flexible, adjustable, reusable | Require significant strength-to-weight ratio, can cause damage if not used correctly |
| Chains | High-strength capacity, reusable | Costly, can damage the load if not used properly, noisy while in transit |
| Binders | Secure, one-handed tensioning, solid locking power | Not adjustable, only one PSI rating per piece |
| Tarps | Protect hidden cargo from rain, snow, leaves and dust, tough and resistant to tears | Difficult to secure effectively, takes too much space for large cargoes, bulky to store |
The back door of a truck is a vital component of the vehicle’s operation. From load securement to load rating and load sealing, every aspect of a back door’s design serves a crucial purpose in keeping the cargo safe and the vehicle on the road.
Customizations for Truck Back Doors
Truck back doors come in different sizes, shapes, materials, and designs. Truck owners can customize their back doors in various ways to suit their needs and preferences. Here are five popular customizations for truck back doors:
- Security locks: Investing in quality security locks for your truck back doors is crucial to prevent theft or unauthorized access. There are many lock options available, including padlocks, deadbolts, and smart locks, which can be opened using a smartphone app or a key fob.
- Graphics or decals: Adding graphics or decals to your truck back doors can serve multiple purposes. It can promote your business or brand, enhance your truck’s appearance, and make it easier to identify your vehicle in a parking lot.
- Storage solutions: Depending on your cargo requirements, you might need additional storage options for your truck back doors. Some popular solutions include shelves, compartments, toolboxes, or cargo nets, which can maximize the space and organization of your truck bed.
- Cargo ramps: If you frequently load heavy or bulky items onto your truck bed, using a cargo ramp can make the process safer and more efficient. There are various types of cargo ramps available, such as folding, telescoping, or arched ramps, depending on your needs and budget.
- Lights: Installing additional lights on your truck back doors can improve visibility and safety while driving at night or in low-light conditions. Some options include LED light bars, spotlights, or strobe lights, which can be wired to your truck’s electrical system.
Types of Truck Back Doors
Truck back doors serve as the entry and exit point of your truck bed, and they can affect its functionality, security, and aesthetics. Here are the main types of truck back doors:
| Type | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barn doors | Two doors that swing open horizontally. | Easy to access cargo, suitable for wide items, customizable design. | Can be heavy, require more clearance space, can be difficult to close and lock. |
| Tailgate | A single door that drops down vertically. | Easier to close and lock, better gas mileage, can serve as a work surface or seat. | Less accessible cargo space, may not fit large or tall items, may block rear view. |
| Roll-up door | A door made of roll-up panels that slide up and down. | Easy to open and close, space-saving, suitable for narrow items, weather-resistant. | Can be noisy, may require maintenance, can affect truck’s aerodynamics. |
Benefits of Customizing Your Truck Back Doors
Customizing your truck back doors can offer several advantages beyond the aesthetic appeal. Here are some benefits:
- Increased security: Investing in security features for your back doors can prevent theft or damage to your cargo, tools, or equipment.
- Better organization: Adding storage solutions can help you keep your tools and supplies in order, reducing the time and effort to find what you need.
- Improved accessibility: Choosing the right type of back door can make it easier to load and unload your cargo, especially if you handle heavy or awkward items.
- Higher resale value: Customizations that upgrade the functionality or safety of your truck can increase its resale value, making it a smart investment in the long run.
- Personalization: Customizing your truck back doors can reflect your unique style and preferences, making your vehicle stand out from the crowd.
Common Issues with Back Doors of Trucks
Back doors of trucks are an essential part of the vehicle. They keep the cargo secure and protected. Like any other vehicle part, back doors of trucks are also susceptible to wear and tear, leading to various issues. Some of the common problems faced by truck owners are as follows:
- Worn out hinges: The hinges of the back doors of a truck can wear out over time due to excessive use. This can cause the door to sag and become difficult to close properly.
- Rusted or corroded latches: Latches on the back doors of trucks can rust or corrode over time due to exposure to weather elements or chemicals. This can make it difficult to open or close the door properly.
- Broken handles: Handles on the back doors can break due to rough use or old age, making it difficult to open or close the door. This can also lead to safety issues as it makes it difficult to access the cargo area in case of an emergency.
Preventing Common Issues
To prevent these common issues with back doors of trucks, regular maintenance is essential. Truck owners should inspect the hinges, latches, and handles of the back doors regularly and replace them if needed. Lubricating the hinges and latches of the doors can also help prevent rust and corrosion.
Moreover, protecting the back doors from harsh weather elements and chemicals is also important. Applying a protective coating to the back doors can help prevent rust and corrosion, and increase the overall lifespan of the doors.
Replacing Back Doors of Trucks
If the back doors of a truck are beyond repair, replacing them might be necessary. It’s important to choose the right replacement doors that fit the truck’s model and make. Truck owners can consult with a trusted mechanic or dealer to ensure the best choice of replacement doors.
The Bottom Line
| Common Issues | Prevention Measures |
|---|---|
| Worn out hinges | Regular maintenance, lubrication, and protection from weather elements |
| Rusted or corroded latches | Regular maintenance, lubrication, and protection from chemicals |
| Broken handles | Regular maintenance and replacement when necessary |
Regular maintenance of back doors is important to ensure the safety and security of the truck’s cargo. By taking preventive measures, truck owners can prolong the lifespan of their back doors and avoid costly repairs in the long run.
Tips for Maintaining a Truck’s Back Door
A truck’s back door is commonly referred to as the tailgate. It is responsible for keeping your precious cargo safe. However, it is also the first line of defense against theft. A faulty or damaged tailgate can increase the risk of losing your belongings. As a truck owner, it’s important to maintain the tailgate’s condition. Here are some tips for maintaining a truck’s back door:
- Regular Cleaning
- Lubrication of Moving Parts
- Proper Alignment
- Inspection of Cables and Latches
- Replacement of Damaged Parts
- Weather Stripping Replacement
- Adding a Tailgate Lock
Regular cleaning is essential in preventing rust and corrosion. It should be washed with soap and water, including the insides. Dry the tailgate properly, especially the moving parts, to avoid rust formation.
Lubricating the tailgate’s moving parts is important in maintaining its smooth operation. This includes the hinges, cables, and latches. Use a silicone-based lubricant to avoid attracting dirt and dust, which cause corrosion and stiffness.
Proper alignment is crucial for the tailgate to function properly. Check if the tailgate latches securely and parallel to the truck bed. Misaligned tailgates may cause damage when opened or closed, and this can lead to costly repairs.
Inspect the cables and latches regularly and look for signs of wear or damage. Worn cables and latches can cause sudden tailgate release, causing property damage or injuring bystanders. Cable or latch replacements are necessary for proper tailgate operation.
Replacing damaged parts is essential to avoid further damage to your truck’s back door. Parts that are bent, cracked, or corroded can cause severe problems later on. Damaged tailgates must also be replaced, as repairs may not be feasible or cost-effective.
| Part | Replacement Cost |
|---|---|
| Hinges | $50 – $150 |
| Cables | $30 – $100 |
| Latches | $50 – $200 |
| Entire Tailgate | $300 – $1,500 |
Weather stripping replacement is also important in maintaining a truck’s back door. Weather stripping helps in keeping the elements out of the truck bed. Cracked or dried-up weather stripping must be replaced promptly. This prevents dust, water, and other debris from entering your cargo area.
Adding a tailgate lock is one of the best ways to increase the security of your truck’s back door. A tailgate lock can provide you peace of mind and prevent unauthorized access. Most tailgate locks are easy to install and can be done at home by following the manufacturer’s instructions.
In summary, maintaining a truck’s back door is an essential part of truck ownership. Proper maintenance ensures a smooth operation of the tailgate, minimizes the risk of theft, and prevents costly repairs.
FAQs About What Is the Back Door of a Truck Called
1. What is the back door of a truck called?
The back door of a truck is commonly referred to as a tailgate.
2. Are all trucks equipped with a tailgate?
No, not all trucks have a tailgate. Some trucks have a different mechanism for accessing the cargo area.
3. Why is it called a tailgate?
The term tailgate originally referred to the hinged gate at the back of a horse-drawn wagon. The term was carried over to trucks and is still used today.
4. What is the purpose of a tailgate?
The tailgate serves as a barrier between the cargo area and the environment outside of the truck. It also allows for easy loading and unloading of cargo.
5. Can a tailgate be removed?
Yes, a tailgate can be removed from a truck. Some truck owners choose to remove the tailgate for increased clearance or to make it easier to load and unload cargo.
6. Is it safe to drive with the tailgate down?
No, it is not safe to drive with the tailgate down. This can create an unstable driving condition and may cause cargo to shift or fall out of the truck.
7. Can a tailgate be replaced?
Yes, a tailgate can be replaced if it is damaged or worn out. Replacement tailgates are available from auto parts stores or through a truck dealership.
Closing Thoughts
Thanks for reading our FAQs about what is the back door of a truck called. We hope this information was helpful to you. Remember to stay safe when using your tailgate and to always follow manufacturer guidelines. Visit us again for more informative articles.