Drive with lift glass open?

[Brand0n]

Tried searching with no luck online or here. Is it okay to drive with the rear lift gate glass open? Need to fit some lumber in the back and wasn’t sure if it would risk breaking the glass or not. Manual isn’t clear either.

Thanks!

 

[KMeloney]

Seems to me that you can draw exhaust into the rear of the truck... So, if you're going to do it, I think I'd have other windows open as well.

 

[Silverado4x4]

I wouldn't take the chance as the wind blowing against the glass while driving could push it down a slam it shut breaking the glass

 

[Larryjb]

Knowing how the hinges are glued to the glass, and knowing how easy it it to actually remove the hatch glass, I think now I would remove the hatch glass in this case. Even the newer style (from 2006), I would still be concerned even though the hinges seem to be more secure.

And opening the other windows is a good idea too.

 

[KMeloney]

I wouldn't take the chance as the wind blowing against the glass while driving could push it down a slam it shut breaking the glass

I think the smartest thing to do would be to have it open enough to let the lumber pass through, and then rest it back down on the lumber (on a towel or something) so that there's no ability for it to slam.

 

[Brand0n]

Appreciate the quick replies. Looks like I’ll make a few trips and cram a handful of stacked studs in at a time with the tailgate closed instead.

 

[Doubeleive]

Appreciate the quick replies. Looks like I’ll make a few trips and cram a handful of stacked studs in at a time with the tailgate closed instead.

you can do it, the only issue is you want to try and secure it down somehow on a padded surface, as soon you have to hit the brakes or hit a good bump the glass is going to get slammed around. hence the padding so tie it down somehow so it's resting on something padded like a blanket

 

[Fless]

What year?

Agree with @Doubeleive about tying it down to some padding. I also work a bungee cord in there to hold it tight but that also allows a bit of movement up and down for flexibility.

 

[bill1013]

Be advised that the lift gate glass is very expensive to replace. And just as easy to break. I just secure the entire gate (partially open) with the load extending out. I’ve hauled lumber, kitchen appliances and furniture with no problems. Hope this helps.

 

[Doubeleive]

What year?

Agree with @Doubeleive about tying it down to some padding. I also work a bungee cord in there to hold it tight but that also allows a bit of movement up and down for flexibility.

I have literally watched someone driving with the glass up, hit a bump and "smash" glass shattered, it's cringe worthy