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We tested tailgate removal in our study. I don't remember the level of impact. But if I recall correctly, it was a little worse.
There is a definite difference between OPENING the tailgate and REMOVING it. Opening is better than removal (from the standpoint of drag) in that the added "bed" length (the horizontal tailgate) keeps the upper and lower airflows separate longer, allowing them to straighten better and merge together with less turbulance. Air does not like to do things abruptly, whether it be dividing, coming together, or changing direction.
Removal of the gate may hurt your coefficient of drag, but that may be offset by the weight reduction. Only fullsize testing can really qualify the differences.
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