DZ43200 Tailgate Assist fits 04-14 Ford F150 & Lincoln Mark LT

This replaced one from another company, the former one had the nipple snap off the upper bracket. This brand is much better made and easier to install. It uses thick metal bands to snap in place not thin wires like others have. I love the mounting system for the tailgate section because it does not require taking the tailgate apart. It's very strong and operates smoothly.

Installing the DZ43200 Tailgate Assist on my Ford F150 was a game changer. As a DIY enthusiast, I found the installation straightforward, thanks to the clear instructions. The hardware included was solid, and the entire process took less than 30 minutes. What I really appreciate about this tailgate assist is how it has transformed my tailgate operation. Gone are the days of worrying about the tailgate slamming down. Now, it gently lowers itself, which is not only safer but also much more convenient when my hands are full. One feature that stood out is the quality of the components. The assist is robust and seems built to last, handling the tailgate’s weight effortlessly. It’s a subtle addition, but it significantly enhances the truck's functionality. I’ve noticed no interference with the tailgate’s standard operation, and it integrates seamlessly with the existing setup. If there's any slight downside, it’s that the installation required a bit of precision, especially aligning the components correctly. However, this was a minor hurdle in what turned out to be a very worthwhile upgrade. This tailgate assist has made daily use of my truck more efficient and stress-free. It’s a simple yet effective enhancement that any truck owner would benefit from, particularly if you're frequently loading and unloading.

This is AMAZING! Simple to install, fits perfect, amd works perfect.

It makes opening and lowering the tailgate noticeably smoother, so you don’t have to worry about it slamming down. Installation only takes a few minutes and doesn’t require drilling — just bolt it on and go. Most users say it works well and feels sturdier than expected for the price, giving a controlled descent every time.

This product seems to have either good ratings or bad ratings. I will start my rating with 4-stars. Mine arrived today and outside of looking for tools, it took all of 15 minutes to install. First, my opinion: having installed it in less time than looking for the tools and the fact that I don't have to exert myself or anyone else in the family to support the tailgate, I'll have to say I love this product. However, reading all the reviews, it may or may not be long before my experience has changed. Specifics on the kit as it arrives: the packaging is nice and everything is contained in a blister pack. Everything really is self-explanatory. Seriously, if anyone can't figure this product out, even without the instructions, probably should bother. It really is THAT simple. It was also nice that the manufacturer was nice enough to include a T50 torx wrench to release the cable bolt. They also included thread-lock, something that not everyone will have on hand. Tools... As stated above, it was nice to find a T50 wrench in the kit. However, it is even less than useless. It slips and there is NO way anyone could use this... At all. Luckily, I had a T50 socket which I used with a ratchet. Now, my T50 socket had the same fit "loose"' so it's probably not the quality of the included wrench. However, the included wrench will NOT provide enough forward pressure to loosen the bolt, so it is still less than useless. You will need some of your own tools, such as an Allen or t-handle (size may vary depending on the kit, maybe), an open-ended wrench (again size may vary), and a small ruler, caliper or some sort of measuring instrument. I don't think the ruler is necessary at all if you ask me. Installation: easy. The instructions actually make it more difficult than it actually needs to be, so, this install is even easier than I mentioned above. The toughest part is just understanding how threaded inserts work. The bolt and nut that is included is a crude threaded-rivet "gun", without the extra expense. So if you have a threaded-rivet gun, the job is even easier still. I decided to do it per the instructions for warranty reasons. So anyway, all you need to do is get the sides to cinch up against the inside of the tailgate to create friction to prevent the nut from spinning. Too loose and it will eventually start spinning over time and with constant vibration. Too tight and you'll weaken the nut as well as the threads. Once this is installed, remove the bolt, nut and 3-piece bearing and replace it with the ball-end bolt. Once that is done and the top-plate installed (self-explanatory), just pop on the shock absorber. Pop-pop and you're done. Operation: once you release the tailgate, it takes about 5 seconds for the shock to fully lower the tailgate. This may be the point of failure that most people are reporting. Think about it, a tailgate weights probably 50-60lb. We won't feel this weight, maybe 20-30lb, since it is anchored. However, the shock may feel much more since it is connected very close to the pivot - laws of leverage, you know. Let's say the shock feels 100lb while you enjoy NOT supporting 30lb. This stress may be a lot for a little shock absorber. I'll keep an eye on it. Fit: I think it is unfair that some reviewers are putting blame on the product or manufacturer for proper fit, when it Amazon has bad information on fit. Probably a way to make this product better is to have a shock installed on both sides, so they share the load. If one fails, the other will assist with anti-slamming. Of course, this would probably double the price of the product. So, for now (7/31/2015), it's working great! I'll update this review if anything happens unexpectedly. If everything is still working as it should, this review will remain quiet.

Should have put this on years ago. Was fairly easy to install and with them providing the star wrench to take the tailgate bolt out really helps. The difference this makes after installation is great! Installation tips from my experience: Had to use a "breaker bar" with the star wrench, cause that bolt was in tight. I just had a short piece of small diameter pipe, put it over the end of the wrench and turned very slowly and bolt came lose easily. Could probably even use some PVC pipe, hollow tent pole, etc. Anything that helps give a little bit leverage. And when reinstalling this bolt, I used some anti (or never) seize on the threads. I didn't have a good wrench to put the other bolt on (the tailgate) as it states to make 9 complete rotations (I think I was able to go 6 or 7), but I did have a torque wrench, so being able to torque to the recommended ft*lb is what I feel is the perfect solution.

It works perfectly. I recommend that you look for the installment on youtube.

Great Product, perfect fit, and easy installation

Muy bien, fácil instalación le quedo perfecto, hace su función,. Solo esperar al rendimeinto espero que dure mucho .

Installed on the wife’s truck. Nice soft open tailgate now. No need to hold the end gate as it goes down. Hit the latch and let go. Sets its self down nicely and the shock must be valved to go up easily. Package works well. Make sure you install the nut insert properly and it will work awesome for you.

Dam easy install in 2014 F150. Dam easy. You just need a 10mm open wrench and a 5mm allen key, everything else is included. Would not hesitate to buy one again, this is a product that you imagine it being good, and is actually is just that good, and even quicker to install, even comes with Locktite. If you look at what you're getting, you may be able to source the parts for cheaper, however, at the price point, you do save money, by saving time, when buying this kit. Having done it one, with the tools out, you could probably install it in 3 minutes. Took me 10 minutes because I was talking to someone. From a saftey standpoint, this will stop the gate from falling of small children / animals if that is a concern to you.