Most of the time I can close the gate on my Dakota. I have a canvas cover on mine that lifts. On the rare occasion I cant. I run a rope from one side to the other through those black brackets on each side of the bed. The cover keeps the wind from blowing stuff out and the rope will keep it from sliding. Think about getting rid of the toolbox. It would free up a lot of room. My 1/4 scale fits with the tailgate up.

David