Tailgate Damper Feedback

[am3098]

I just wanted to give some feedback. I installed the OEM tailgate damper (Ford P/N: ML3Z5D008C ) on my 2024 XLT. I had an aftermarket DeeZee damper on my last truck and it worked well for years, and cost about $40. I chose to spend the extra money ($100) on the OEM version for the new truck because of the hidden installation behind the tail light and the fact I didn't have to remove the left tie down on the tailgate, never know when you may need to use it.

I'll have to say the OEM is a clean install, except for fighting the red Loctite on the two hinge bolts, what a PITA! However, the cheaper DeeZee damper definitely gives the tailgate a softer landing vs. the OEM, the gate lands harder with the OEM version. I guess I expected something OEM which costs over twice as much as aftermarket would work better than aftermarket. Overall, I'm satisfied with the OEM damper, but if I had to do it over again, I wouldn't worry about the tiedown and just go aftermarket.

https://www.deezee.com/home/productdescription/36020/Truck-Tailgate-Assist

https://parts.ford.com/shop/en/us/b...iscous-dampening-cartridge-p-ml3z5d008c?pdp=y

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[Sig Oris]

For entertainment, read the Ranger5g forum threads about tailgate dampers.

 

[MonkeySpank]

Like you, i fought those red loctite bolts as well, soon found that if you torch those bolts from inside the taillight housing, they come out with little effort while not burning the paint.

 

[Porpoise Hork]

For entertainment, read the Ranger5g forum threads about tailgate dampers.

 

[ryk]

I also installed the OEM damper, and like you I’m a little disappointed. It works great for the first 3/4 or so of the tailgate travel, but then it just sort of lets go and the tailgate hits bottom with a thump. I find myself catching the tailgate and slowing down that last bit. Still better than nothing, but could definitely be better.

 

[gagliano7]

I put the oem damper on my STX and it seems to work great. I have a deezee on my 07 Silverado great. The only problem I had with the deezee is one of the bolts came loose and rubbed. I like the oem setup better.

 

[franksfords]

I went OEM for the "cleaner" look. It comes down a little hard the last few inches. I thought it was because of the heavy tailgate protector/mat I put on it but I guess it's a somewhat normal way of it functioning. I'm okay with it. It doesn't slam just more of a hard stop.

 

[JumboJVT]

Out of curiosity, do all have the bed utility package? It must add significant weight to the tailgate and is why I ordered without. Plan to put the damper on...if the truck ever gets built.

 

[am3098]

Yes, I have the bed utility package, it's one of the reasons I bought an F-150. The step makes it much easier vs. crawling into the bed. I wouldn't think it adds too much weight to the tailgate though.

 

[MonkeySpank]

Hopefully i got lucky, I went with the cheaper Chinese version from Amazon and it's smooth all the way down. hope it lasts.

 

[sheesh]

I did the OEM upgrade as well and fought those bolts also. Soaking with PB Blaster did the trick. My bolts got messed up before I learned of PB Blaster. So I had to pick up some new ones at the dealer. They already come with the red loctite on them.

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