Tail gate lock handle installation - My '08 Silverado came without a locking tailgate and once I added a BakFlip aluminum tonneau cover I wanted a bit more security for ...

My '08 Silverado came without a locking tailgate and once I added a BakFlip aluminum tonneau cover I wanted a bit more security for payloads so I ordered GM part #17802393. The main reasons I chose to go this route was because it was only $45 (shipped), maintains factory appearance (obviously) and uses my existing door/ignition key. Although this is only about a 15 minute project that I'd classify as "very simple" I figured I'd do this quick "how-to" anyway......

Here is what is included in the "kit" (bezel with lock cylinder, black handle and instructions) plus my 1/2" socket, extension (for convenience), ratchet and flat blade screwdriver (not needed but I grabbed it "just in case")......


From the inside of the tailgate remove the bottom bolt. This bolt locks the bezel in place.....


The bezel is also held by three spring clips. Just a tight grip and a little pulling/twisting and the bezel pops right off......


Clips holding the latch rods in place......


Pivot the clips down and remove the rods from the handle.....


Remove the top two bolts from the rear of the tailgate and remove the original handle.....


Put the new handle in place and replace the top two bolts but don't tighten completely yet. Reattach the rods and pivot the retaining clips into lock position. Notice the lock mechanism (rectangle thingy to the right that was not present on original handle)......it is down and in the "unlock position" in this pic which is where you want it for the install......


Here is a pic with the lock mechanism thingy in the "lock" position.......


Snap the new bezel in place, attach the bottom bezel bolt and tighten all three (I went for "reasonably snug" but the instructions call for 18 ft. lbs. of torque). Sorry for not having a pic of the bezel being snapped into place but I'm sure you can imagine the magical experience......


Place your existing key in the lock......


The instructions say to turn the key 180 degrees clockwise until you hear/feel a "click" but mine went almost 270 degrees before a solid "click".


PRESTO......locking tailgate goodness!

Thanks for a nice clear writeup & great photos.

One question - how does the lock get "keyed" to match your ignition key. Does it happen when you did this step?

The instructions say to turn the key 180 degrees clockwise until you hear/feel a "click" but mine went almost 270 degrees before a solid "click".

Or did you have to mess with lock cylinder pins?

The tumblers inside the lock will be pushed in place by your key to match it's specific contours. The very first time you put the key in make sure it is fully inserted when you are twisting the key to the position where it clicks. This is how your key is "saved". (If the key isn't fully inserted you may have trouble with the lock, where you need to put the key in, then pull it out slightly for it to work. I've had this problem on an older car before and it can be a headache!)

Wow, Great post! I just put a backflip on my truck and have been looking for a locking tailgate solution. The guys at my local line-x said they'd install this same gm lock for $75 bucks. Looks like ill save myself some money (for that new truck payment) and order this badboy myself!

Great write up, to bad they dont have one for the 03-07 classic

I bought this truck saturday and with no knowledge of any truck I completed the swap in about 30 minutes in the dark with a flashlight. Save money and do this one yourself!! My lock also set after about 270 degrees, not 180.

Just ordered mine from the dealer, I was surprised, only 49 bucks!

I just completed my very simple and fast install! Works great!

Great photos - I especially liked the reflection of you and the garage door in the top photo!!!

he he yeah, that'll happen.. one con of a clean truck! unexpected reflections!