Just could NOT get myself to drill holes for the Tailgate Table... HELP ME!

[BostonSasquatch]

A drill stop is all you need.

Tricky Dick is right. This is a drill stop (Harbor Freight, $4) if you're not familiar with it:

I bought the RockSlide table ($275 at Bronconation.com). Heavy, sturdy, I'm very happy with it. And yes, it's installed with sheet metal screws you drill. I had a friend hold it while I drilled and screwed the top center, then he secured it level while I drilled two more--with the drill stop. No damage to the exterior panel, and it's on tight. (Do read the instructions!)

Pancho, you're going to be taking this truck over rough roads and rocks and through woods and things, right? Or is it strictly a daily drive? If the former, understand that the Bronco is to be used and enjoyed, which means pushing the boundaries of your comfort zone.
Sorry if I'm something of a scold, but like the advertising slogan says, "Just do it!"

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[Scooter2]

Dude...
The shop told you that so you pay them - scare tactic. And Tricky Dick is dead on - Drill stop - problem solved.
You absolutely can do this. There are WAY stupider people out there drilling holes/re-gearing/etc... and i dont even know you
The feeling of taking your time, mounting that sucker, and knowing YOU did it - you did something you thought was just beyond your scope - is second to none.
I was the exact same way years ago with my jeep - many of us were - but have confidence and take your time.

 

[Ksjrb03]

The early version did not ship with the drill stop which is why dealers and noobs were poking through to the outer skin. The table now comes with the bit and drill stop, so it’s impossible to poke through unless your an Uber noob. It’s easy.

 

[bytheway]

I drilled and installed my Ford table on the first week I had taken possession. It was a little scary but it was pretty easy and I've had no issues in a year and a half. I would keep it.

 

[Teke]

Back in like 2014/2015 I took a 6" hole saw to my dad's S197 for a smooth decklid install. Couple holes on the inside of a tailgate are nothing.

 

[PWillette]

I installed the factory table. Overall satisfied, fits good and no rattles. My only complaint is the provided nut-serts and tool suck. I ended up getting some good ones with a proper setting tool.

 

[SwampCactus]

I love my JCR no drill table. Use it all the time while camping.

 

[sniffHound]

Velcro tape.

I opened the Tailgate table box (the official Ford one that retails for $219). I looked at the instructions and probably watched about a hour of install videos. I am too scared to drill four 7/16" holes in my Bronco. I asked my dealer service department. They said it was a "pain in the neck" and they charge 2 hours of labor for it. Also they told me that they drilled all the way through once TO THE OUTSIDE and had to replace an entire tailgate. I have decided to not do it. I got it a while ago, so I cannot return. Anyone braver than me want one for $100 plus I will ship it to you if you want (you pay shipping)? And if you did install, how did it go for you?

 

[Raskew]

I have the trailgator one. It's a no drill and works great. Has magnet bar to hang knives on it.

It's pricey, but I enjoy it.

Bronco TRAILGATER for 2021-23 Ford Bronco & Raptor – Outback Adventure Products

 

[Pancho Kornwallace]

I have the trailgator one. It's a no drill and works great. Has magnet bar to hang knives on it.

It's pricey, but I enjoy it.

Bronco TRAILGATER for 2021-23 Ford Bronco & Raptor – Outback Adventure Products

I saw a video review regarding that one. It is superdeluxe. Really a nice product it appears. Might as well have the best if you can afford it!

 

[Baseaf]

Fair enough, go with a no drill version then. I like the JCR. I rarely use it though and would not buy any if I had a do over.

Same here man. Dumbest mod I have done. I literally never use it and it rattles slightly.

 

[Fonz54]

I opened the Tailgate table box (the official Ford one that retails for $219). I looked at the instructions and probably watched about a hour of install videos. I am too scared to drill four 7/16" holes in my Bronco. I asked my dealer service department. They said it was a "pain in the neck" and they charge 2 hours of labor for it. Also they told me that they drilled all the way through once TO THE OUTSIDE and had to replace an entire tailgate. I have decided to not do it. I got it a while ago, so I cannot return. Anyone braver than me want one for $100 plus I will ship it to you if you want (you pay shipping)? And if you did install, how did it go for you?

Fortune favors the bold....I had major heart palpitations when doing mine even with using a drill stop. Aluminum tailgate is easy peasy to drill. As they say in the old country, "Piano, piano...." - rought translation - go slowly!

 

[Fonz54]

Same here man. Dumbest mod I have done. I literally never use it and it rattles slightly.

Agree I had hot nuts to get it done. Bought the table using Ford Points and I rarely use it. Plus like you said it has a definite rattle.

 

[JohnnyBoots]

We went with JCR, just because of the added features to it. Works great and we've used the hell out of it, just depends on your lifestyle. I filleted a fish on ours at the beach.

For punched a bunch of unnecessary holes in your bronco you can too!

 

[Wallysdog]

The thing you have to ask yourself is, if it is an OEM Ford accessory why didn't they pre punch the holes in the sheet metal during the tailgate fabrication.

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