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Front Runner Drop Down Tailgate Table – Rear Door Defender review
When every inch of workable surface counts, the Front Runner dropdown table makes good use of an otherwise unused space. The rear door, often covered with just a panel, suddenly becomes functional: a place to prepare lunch, organize gear, or set down tools. It’s easy to install, folds away neatly, and provides a sturdy workspace when needed. Additionally, it has an integrated cutting board that slides in and out, how efficient is that?
What is the Front Runner dropdown table?
Built from black powder-coated steel with a wooden slide-out cutting board, the dropdown table mounts directly to the inside of the Defender’s rear door, or any other vehicle for that matter. It opens via a latch and is supported by two sliding stays, creating a work surface over 64 centimeters long, plus an additional 44 centimeters with the slide-out board. It’s tough enough to hold up to 40 kilograms, making it suitable for meal prep, repairs, or even as a coffee station (the latter is always a bonus, right?). While it does add some weight to the door, the rigid design and integrated cutting board make it a practical upgrade for anyone wanting to maximize usable space in their Defender.
Specifications
- Steel black powder-coated dropdown table with wooden cutting board
- Opens downward by unlocking the latch
- Dropdown table is supported by 2 sliding stays
- Primary table surface area: 64,8 x 33,1 cm
- Slide out table length: 44,5 cm (work space 64,8 + 44,5 cm)
- Width/working depth in closed position, including latch: 8,5 cm (important for interior fitment)
- Thickness wooden slide-out cutting board: 16 mm
- Load rating main table: 40 kg
- Weight: 9,19 kg
Pros
- Additional working surface in an otherwise unused area
- Easy to use (fold out and close)
- Large surface work area
- Rigid design with no flex or play
- Hard-wearing powder coating
- Integrated (and replaceable) cutting board
Cons
- Very heavy
- The vertical side against the door isn’t a flush plate, but formed and cut, looking slightly strange depending on your door’s design
- When the cutting board is closed in moist conditions, it can get moldy (we’ve had that multiple times already)
- Due to weight and importation fees, it’s relatively expensive in Europe, compared to South Africa
Would we buy it again?
We have had a self-made dropdown table on our rear door for well over ten years, and have used it almost every single day when on the road. It’s proven to be super useful. So when we got the chance to upgrade and replace our worn piece of wood, we did so knowing it was going to be an improvement. And we still think it’s a great place to have some additional work surface. Although it does interfere with our sliding kitchen, it’s not bothersome when working in and around camp, and we even use it for lunch once the food has been taken out of the fridge. Knowing that we are rebuilding the interior in the future makes it a no-brainer even more.
What makes the Front Runner table stand out from self-built versions is the sturdiness of the table and, with that, the fact that there’s no requirement to have straps holding everything in place. It’s a self-supporting system with no interference to use the countertop, which is definitely a bonus.
It fitted with ease on our existing wooden panel on the rear door. You might need to make adjustments to your current interior trim, as this might differ from one vehicle to another. But in our opinion, it’s very much worth it, and you won’t regret putting a table there.
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As long-term overlanders we fully understand the need for high-quality and reliable gear. We know that if gear isn’t up to standard it can hinder your adventures, resulting in discomfort or a dangerous situation.
We write our reviews after extensive testing and with you – an adventurous overlander – in mind. We hope you appreciate our information, and feel free to reach out if you have any questions.
Pro Tips
Make sure to store the cutting board only when dry, or keep it open when possible to prevent mold. You might want to treat it with a natural (food-grade) oil.
Additionally, to make great use of the open backing plate of the table, you can create a small cupboard behind it. One that might store smaller items like your toiletries, or your spices, for example.
Check out these product shots
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