Removable tailgate table

jscherb

jscherb

TJ Enthusiast
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Joined
Feb 13, 2020
Messages
824
Location
Elmira, NY
I've been working on a new tailgate table design. Unlike most tailgate tables, this one is removable. It has two mounting rails that attach to the tailgate and the table clips onto the mounting rails. On the JK the rails attach to factory holes but since the TJ doesn't have any such holes, four holes need to be drilled for screws.

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The way the mounting rails are designed, the table can be installed at several different heights. I did the next few photos on a

JK tailgate but it works the same way on a TJ tailgate.

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Here's a demo showing how it clips in place.


The table folds flat for storage when it's off the tailgate:

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Next I'm doing a no-drill version that hangs over the top of the tailgate without needing mounting rails to be attached to the tailgate.

I think a design like this could be useful for people who have only occasional use for a tailgate table and don't need it taking up spacing in the Jeep when it's not needed.
 
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Following. I just got my 12"x24" sheet of aluminum for the tailgate table. I'd like to see your design for a removable table. My plan right now is to use gorilla tape for the tailgate side of the piano hinge in a more common fold up style. Trying to avoid drilling but if I end up needed to I think I'll be ok.
 
I like your concept.

On the related subject of camp tables for jeep camping, I just received an "all metal fold-up table" from the Riley Stove Company in Montana. Orv Riley has been known for his stoves among horse packers for almost 40 years. His tables are the only ones that I have been able to find that are all steel and capable of standing up to the heat of hot stoves, pans, etc. His dutch oven cookers are high quality items as well.

https://www.rileystovecompany.com/copy-of-riley-outdoor-products
I will be testing Orv's 27x30 "compact" table for the rest of the camping season. It folds to a 15x23x4 suitcase and stands 27" high when set up. I like it so far, even though it does weigh 18#.

Shown next to Orv Riley's "single dutch oven cooker" and stowed in the back of my jeep:

Riley Stove Company Table in back of jeep 2.jpgCooking Implements.jpgRiley Single Dutch Oven Cooker and Compact Table set up.jpgRiley Compact Table set up with stove and scottle 2.jpg
 
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I sewed a storage bag for when the table is off the tailgate. The bag is made from Arctic vinyl, good for down to -30f.

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I've got one more accessory to make before I call this project done - I'm going to do a Molle panel that attaches the same way the the table does. Photos to come.
 
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The attachment system for the table has other uses, for example this Molle panel that I made yesterday. I did these photos on a JK tailgate but it works the same on a TJ tailgate.

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A full height panel could be made but I made this one narrow so it can fit above the table, it might be useful to hold pouches with cooking supplies handy for use at the table.

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Or the Molle panel alone without the table.

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In this photo, I've attached an Overland Outfitters Cutlery Keeper to the Molle panel...

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The Molle panel clips on the same way the table does.

 
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Sorry, I don't sell anything (or take any money :)). This table is something I designed because I thought a removable table would be a very useful thing for a Jeep that gets used for multiple types of activities. I built the prototype to test the design concept. I think the prototype will probably be used on my son's JK 2dr, he uses his Jeep occasionally for camping/tailgating/beach outings but doesn't need (or want) a table permanently mounted to the tailgate.

There's no current plan for this table to go into production, but if a company is interested in it, I'd be happy to discuss turning over the design to them.
 
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"oh, just something I whipped together ........."

Can you imagine being J's neighbor?


Hey J ! I fixed my kids go kart , what did you do today ??

JScherb- "Oh , I built my kid a Ferrari, check out the seats....."
 
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Still searching for something like this removable table. Perfect for my TJ that is also my DD.
Let's do some kind of barter so you don't have to take cash!!

As serious as I am, I am getting tired of searching for a decent removable table. I really only need something about a foot deep. Thinking of using the cantilever brackets used for wall shelves. Doesn't have to be able to handle much weight.
 
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