The Volkswagen T5 is a versatile and reliable van that has been popular among outdoor enthusiasts, campers, and families for many years One of the standout features of the T5 is its rear doors, which can either be barn doors or a tailgate While the barn doors are practical for loading and unloading cargo, many T5 owners prefer the convenience and style of a tailgate If you own a T5 with barn doors and are considering a tailgate conversion, here is everything you need to know.
Why Convert to a Tailgate?
There are a few reasons why T5 owners might want to convert their barn doors to a tailgate First and foremost, a tailgate provides easier access to the rear of the vehicle, making it more convenient for loading and unloading This can be especially useful if you use your T5 for camping or other outdoor activities where you need to frequently access the rear of the van.
Additionally, a tailgate can give your T5 a more modern and stylish look Many people prefer the sleek appearance of a tailgate over the traditional barn doors A tailgate can also improve the aerodynamics of the vehicle, which can lead to better fuel efficiency.
How to Convert to a Tailgate
Converting your T5 from barn doors to a tailgate is a relatively straightforward process, but it does require some mechanical know-how The first step is to source a tailgate from a T5 that is being scrapped or from a salvage yard You will also need to purchase a tailgate conversion kit, which typically includes all of the necessary hardware and instructions for the conversion.
The conversion process involves removing the barn doors and installing the tailgate in their place This may require drilling new holes in the body of the van and making adjustments to ensure that the tailgate functions properly vw t5 tailgate conversion. While it is possible to do the conversion yourself if you have the right tools and experience, many T5 owners choose to have the conversion done by a professional to ensure that it is done correctly.
Cost of Conversion
The cost of converting your T5 from barn doors to a tailgate can vary depending on the price of the tailgate and conversion kit, as well as the cost of labor if you choose to have the conversion done by a professional In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1500 for the conversion, depending on the quality of the tailgate and the complexity of the installation.
It is important to factor in the cost of the conversion when deciding whether or not to convert your T5 to a tailgate While the convenience and style of a tailgate can be appealing, it is important to make sure that the cost of the conversion is worth it for you.
Benefits of a Tailgate
There are several benefits to converting your T5 to a tailgate As mentioned earlier, a tailgate provides easier access to the rear of the vehicle, making it more convenient for loading and unloading A tailgate can also improve the overall look of your T5, giving it a more modern and stylish appearance.
In addition, a tailgate can improve the aerodynamics of your T5, which can lead to better fuel efficiency By reducing drag on the vehicle, a tailgate can help to improve gas mileage, saving you money on fuel in the long run.
Overall, converting your T5 from barn doors to a tailgate can be a worthwhile investment if you value convenience, style, and fuel efficiency While the conversion process may require some time and effort, the benefits of having a tailgate can make it all worth it in the end If you are considering a tailgate conversion for your T5, be sure to do your research and weigh the costs and benefits before making a decision.
In conclusion, converting your Volkswagen T5 from barn doors to a tailgate can be a great way to improve the convenience, style, and fuel efficiency of your vehicle With the right tools and know-how, you can complete the conversion yourself or have it done by a professional By weighing the costs and benefits of the conversion, you can make an informed decision about whether or not a tailgate conversion is right for you.