Multi-Function Tailgates

**jasonl78** · 02-09-2019, 02:25 PM

Haven't seen much for conversation here about the changes that the Big 3 are making with the functionality of their tailgates. What do people think? Will they be useful features or just gimmicks? I know Ford has had their tailgate step out for a while. For those that have them, are you glad you got it and how well has it held up? Can the step still be used if there is a bumper pull trailer attached? The GMC tailgate looks interesting and I could see some benefit to it. Seems like it's only offered on the higher end trims though. It seems like this one might not work if you had a bumper pull trailer attached. Curious about the longevity of the multiple folding joints and the fact they have a USB port in it. The Ram tailgate is interesting as well. It's similar to a Ridgeline but you don't have to open the full tailgate since it's a 60/40 split. I was concerned about capacity when it was in the down position but apparently it can still hold 2,000 lbs. I have a short bed truck now (6'4") but still find it hard to reach into the bed of the truck if the tailgate is down. Having the ability to open it sideways and get 2' closer is nice. I have the Rambox cargo management system in my truck and I do use the cargo extender often when hauling building material. I also use it as a divider to shorten the bed to prevent things from rolling to the front. It seems you have to have cargo management group to also get the split tailgate. Then if you want the extra kickout rear step it's another cost adder. All these things really begin to add up! We'll see maybe I would consider these things in my next vehicle. What's everyone else think? Attached below are some pictures showing the options from the Big 3.

Click image for larger version.

Name: Ford Tailgate Step.jpg
Views: 18
Size: 61.6 KB
ID: 17567

Click image for larger version.

Name: GM Tailgate.jpg
Views: 22
Size: 98.7 KB
ID: 17568

Click image for larger version.

Name: Ram Tailgate.jpg
Views: 19
Size: 99.6 KB
ID: 17569

**FR8TFLYER** · 02-09-2019, 02:34 PM

I recently purchased a 2018 F-250 and find it useful and sturdy. With the height of the truck it would be difficult to get in the bed of the truck without it.

**SouthTX** · 02-09-2019, 02:42 PM

If they didn't make the trucks so gawdawful tall, we wouldn't need steps and we wouldn't have to change TV and RV suspensions to get the rig level.

**FT4NOW** · 02-09-2019, 03:01 PM

My current and previous truck are Ford and have the tailgate step with pole. With the pole on the tailgate, the tailgate doesnt get sprayed when you get a spray-in bedliner, they leave the plastic there. I personally dont use the step at all, but my kids enjoy using it to get in the back of the truck. I imagine if I had mobility limitations the step would be extremely helpful for getting into the bed.

I like the idea of the split tailgate, it could be great if you have a cap on your bed. It reminds me of the barn doors on older SUVs and could provide to be somewhat useful.

Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk

**JCR GD** · 02-09-2019, 03:10 PM

The Ford step is nice because it is two separate parts. When using my bumper pull trailer the step part would hit the trailer tongue so I just step up on the tongue and can still use the handle part on the tailgate for support.

**backtrack2015** · 02-09-2019, 03:12 PM

I think I like the Ram one the best for normal daily life. It gets you a couple feet closer to the bed for loading/unloading.

**howson** · 02-09-2019, 03:27 PM

Originally Posted by jasonl78

Q: Ford has had their tailgate step out for a while. For those that have them, are you glad you got it and how well has it held up?

A: YES and fantastic!

Originally Posted by jasonl78

Q: Can the step still be used if there is a bumper pull trailer attached?

A: No. When I open my tailgate (step still stowed) the edge of the tailgate comes within a whisper of the 315's powered tongue jack.

Originally Posted by jasonl78

Q: What's everyone else think?

A: Wouldn't get another one without it (or something comparable).

**Cate&Rob** · 02-09-2019, 03:34 PM

It's the vertical post that makes the Ford system really useful for getting in and out of the truck box. The other systems look much more complex and probably much heavier.

Rob

**kevinpo** · 02-09-2019, 03:40 PM

I have a slide in camper so I remove the tailgate 2-3 times year. I wonder how heavy/hard these are to remove/install? I find it a real chore in my later years to lift a 5 gallon gas can or a battery over the tall side of the truck.

Regards,
Kevin

**howson** · 02-09-2019, 03:43 PM

Originally Posted by kevinpo

I have a slide in camper so I remove the tailgate 2-3 times year. I wonder how heavy/hard these are to remove/install? I find it a real chore in my later years to lift a 5 gallon gas can or a battery over the tall side of the truck.

Regards,
Kevin

I had to have Fran's help to get the tailgate off. There's two different angles when it is possible to release it. Also, if there's a camera, you have to crawl underneath to disconnect the electrical connections and install dummy plugs.

Probably the #1 reason I went from the standard bed on my prior F-250 to the 8' bed in my DRW. With the latter I don't have to remove the tailgate with the 'Wing in the bed, though I still can't quite get the tailgate closed all the way.