ESI Ultimate Tailgate Seal with Taper Seal for GMC Sierra and Chevy

In this review of the ESI Ultimate Tailgate Seal with Taper Seal, the bottom line is simple: it is a practical, purpose-built solution for owners of GMC Sierra with MultiPro tailgates and Chevrolet Silverado with Multi-Flex tailgates who need to block dust and water when running a truck bed cap or tonneau cover. The reviewer found the seal effective at stopping dust and light water intrusion, and appreciated that it is made from automotive grade EPDM rubber and ships with aggressive 3M ST1200 adhesive. Installation requires care and the correct temperature window, but when done properly the result is a noticeably tighter tailgate seal.

Key Features

• Patented design: Engineered specifically for MultiPro and Multi-Flex tailgates to provide a tailored fit that addresses common tailgate gaps.
• Automotive grade EPDM: The 21 ft EPDM rubber material resists weathering and keeps dust and water from entering the bed when a cap or cover is used.
• 3M ST1200 adhesive: The supplied tape adheres to a wide range of surfaces, including spray-on bed liners, for a reliable bond when installed correctly.
• Made in USA: Domestic manufacture ensures consistent quality control and materials for a durable weatherstrip solution.
• Installation guidance: The packaged and online directions explain the required 25 lbs of pressure to bond the adhesive and the recommended 55 - 104F (13 - 40C) temperature window for best results.

Who It's For

This product is aimed at owners of GMC Sierra models equipped with the MultiPro tailgate and Chevrolet Silverado models with the Multi-Flex tailgate who run a truck bed cap or tonneau cover and need to reduce dust and water intrusion through tailgate gaps. It is also useful for anyone who prefers a made-in-USA weatherstrip made from EPDM rubber and a strong adhesive tape.

Those who should look elsewhere include owners of Silverado or Sierra trucks without the Multi-Flex or MultiPro tailgate configurations and buyers who cannot install parts within the recommended 55 - 104F temperature range or cannot apply the required 25 lbs of sustained pressure to secure the tape during bonding.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Effectively reduces dust and snow ingress when paired with a cap or cover, based on customer feedback about the seal's performance.
• High-quality EPDM rubber construction and robust adhesive give a durable, weather-resistant seal.
• Adheres to many finishes, including spray-on bed liners, making it versatile for different trucks.

Cons

• Adhesion received mixed feedback, so careful surface prep and correct temperature and pressure during installation are essential.
• Not compatible with trucks lacking the MultiPro or Multi-Flex tailgate without purchasing a different model.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The ESI Ultimate Tailgate Seal is a focused, effective solution for Sierra and Silverado owners with the specific tailgate types mentioned; it delivers a better seal against dust and light water intrusion and is built from durable EPDM with strong adhesive. It represents good value for those who can follow the installation requirements and need a reliable, made-in-USA weatherstrip for use with a bed cap or tonneau cover.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this fit my Silverado with a standard tailgate?
No. This model is designed for Silverado with the Multi-Flex tailgate and Sierra with the MultiPro tailgate; trucks without those tailgates require a different seal model.

What surface prep and conditions are required?
Follow the included directions: apply when air and surface temperature is between 55 - 104F (13 - 40C), clean and dry the surface, and apply 25 lbs of pressure to bond the adhesive.

Does the adhesive work on spray-on bed liners?
Yes. The 3M ST1200 tape is specified to adhere to a wide range of finishes, including spray-on bed liners, when properly applied.