Yamaha Rhino Tailgate Cables

Rhino Tailgate Cables

By Mike Havanec

NOTE: Keep in mind that the Rhino tailgate (and hinges) are plastic and are obviously not intended to be sat upon or to carry heavy loads.

A set of tailgate cables can be made very easily. All that is needed is approximately 3 1/2 feet of small diameter cable, 4 cable clamps (screw or crimp type), 2 metal right angle corners, 4 self tapping screws and optionally a spring hook or clasp. With a clasp the tailgate cable can be unhooked and the tailgate will drop all the way down. Without the clasp, the tailgate will only drop to the horizontal position.
First drill a hole slightly larger than the cable you are using in the plate on the inside of the tailgate that the latches are attached to. You can remove the plate, or just drill it in place.
Next take a right angle corner piece and cut it off so only one hole remains on one side. Bend the angle so this piece will not stick out into the bed area too much. The piece can be painted to match the bed or left as is. (Note: If you are using a clasp, the attachment hole may have to drilled out to accommodate the clasp.). With 2 self-tapping screws attach this bracket to the bed in convenient location.

Support the tailgate so it is in a horizontal position. Measure the distance between the 2 brackets and add approximately 6” (for the loops). Cut the cable in half. With one of the pieces, loop one end through the hole in the bracket on the tailgate (it may be necessary to remove the bracket). Clamp the cable to form a small loop. Loop the other end through the optional clasp or through the hole in the bracket previously screwed to the bed. Adjust this loop so the tailgate remains in a horizontal position when the cable is tight. Clamp the final loop. Cut off any excess cable. Repeat the above for the other side to complete the installation.
NOTE: Be careful with stranded cable, it can be very sharp. Any cable extending past the clamps should be taped to prevent accidentally snagging an object or yourself.

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