I have damaged the tailgate of my current RX to the point where I would need a complete new ones. Quotes came in at around 3,000 all said and done. Luckily I regularly check out local scrap yards and found a mint condition one, same colour for 1100. Obviously I pulled the trigger. Question I have is, has anyone ever had any experience with replacing the tailgates on these bad boys? Obviously some bolts and a ton of wires but anything I need to be prepared for?

Thanks!

 

Why not ask a couple of body shops how much they would charge to install it for you? It can be difficult to get it installed and properly lined up if not in the body shop business. Maybe even search craigslist for a budget body shop or someone who does side jobs.
I trust it does not need painting.

 

There is a plug for all the wiring either in the bulkhead above the hatch or in the top of the hatch its self .
With the glass in that thing is pretty heavy and awkward to hold over your head to bolt down .
Maybe 3 guys two to hold it and one to bolt together . There isn't really any adjustment so it should line up pretty close .
Dont take the hinges off the car .Use the originals if possible . Easier to do it that way .The bolts have collars under the head
thats what puts them back into the right position .Finding the right hatch the right color in good shape is one in 100 . We love it
when that happens in our shop . Good luck

 

Thanks for the tips. I forgot to mention my neighbour owns a body shop and is willing to help so free labour!

 

Yeah I was super lucky but I have also been looking for quite some time. Found one in Chilliwack BC and got it shipped here with taxes in for $1,150. Same color, same model (well 2010, but it's the same gate). I will update on how things go. I have some friends that are going to help