I've been looking for a tailgate table that balances cost and function. The Overlander is nice and shiny, but more than I wanted to spend. I caught a sale on the Front Runner Outfitters table (https://www.frontrunneroutfitters.com/en/us/drop-down-tailgate-table-mkiii.html) and figured I'd take a couple pictures and share my experience. Tl;dr: The Front Runner table is easy to install in a TJ, and only requires modification/removal of the rear tail light wiring cover. I have a suggestion for that at the end.
First impressions: Solid, well built, good instructions for JK and JL installation. Lots of hardware and standoffs included for different vehicle installation. Packing material is light, and a corner of the table got dented in transit. Damage is minor and affects only form, not fit or function.
Additional tools: 10mm wrench to disassemble hinges, 4mm Allen driver for drill to set flange nuts (I used a Rivnut tool).
First, remove the plastic caps from the two screws closest to each hinge, and take the hinge screws out to separate the table from the tailgate frame. This makes the install a lot easier. Pay attention to the arrangement of the plastic bushings on each screw.
Do not use a level to align the frame on the tailgate unless you confirm that the tailgate is also level. Working by myself, it was easier to align the top of the frame with the top fold in the sheet metal. However, that put the top mounting holes really close to the internal structure of the tailgate, so I recommend shifting it 0.5" to 1" lower. Mark, drill, and install the top holes before marking the bottom.
Test fit with the top bolts installed
The flange nut tool provided requires a powered driver with a 4mm Allen. A rivnut tool worked for me. Install the nuts so the threaded ring is flush with the surface.
Reattach the table to the frame before attaching the frame to the tailgate. The shorter screw is the pivot, the longer screw runs in the slot. Leave the nylock nuts a little loose and tighten to your preference once installed.
Use the hardware recommended for the JK (short spacer with matching bolt and washers.)
And done!
Mine barely clears the bottom edge of the soft top bar, which is another reason to lower it a little bit.
If you want/need to keep the rear taillight, it should be easy to do. The wire goes through the tailgate approximately where the red circle is. The only modification is to remove the plastic cover from the taillight wiring and cut off the tab that secures the cover.
First impressions: Solid, well built, good instructions for JK and JL installation. Lots of hardware and standoffs included for different vehicle installation. Packing material is light, and a corner of the table got dented in transit. Damage is minor and affects only form, not fit or function.
Additional tools: 10mm wrench to disassemble hinges, 4mm Allen driver for drill to set flange nuts (I used a Rivnut tool).
First, remove the plastic caps from the two screws closest to each hinge, and take the hinge screws out to separate the table from the tailgate frame. This makes the install a lot easier. Pay attention to the arrangement of the plastic bushings on each screw.
Do not use a level to align the frame on the tailgate unless you confirm that the tailgate is also level. Working by myself, it was easier to align the top of the frame with the top fold in the sheet metal. However, that put the top mounting holes really close to the internal structure of the tailgate, so I recommend shifting it 0.5" to 1" lower. Mark, drill, and install the top holes before marking the bottom.
Test fit with the top bolts installed
The flange nut tool provided requires a powered driver with a 4mm Allen. A rivnut tool worked for me. Install the nuts so the threaded ring is flush with the surface.
Reattach the table to the frame before attaching the frame to the tailgate. The shorter screw is the pivot, the longer screw runs in the slot. Leave the nylock nuts a little loose and tighten to your preference once installed.
Use the hardware recommended for the JK (short spacer with matching bolt and washers.)
And done!
Mine barely clears the bottom edge of the soft top bar, which is another reason to lower it a little bit.
If you want/need to keep the rear taillight, it should be easy to do. The wire goes through the tailgate approximately where the red circle is. The only modification is to remove the plastic cover from the taillight wiring and cut off the tab that secures the cover.
