Tailgate not level with bed.

[huunvubu]

I have the same issue(s). No part of the tailgate is supporting the bed load if it extends past the end of the bed.

Also the left cable is slack when the right cable is fully taunt.

If Ford does not fix this issue and yes this is a Ford issue then I will be looking for a solution in the aftermarket.

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[Old Ranchero]

what about installing the tailgate assist damper rods some people are using? Might be some adjustment room there to align your open tailgate to your liking?

 

[kw86er]

what about installing the tailgate assist damper rods some people are using? Might be some adjustment room there to align your open tailgate to your liking?

If they are rated for 250lbs each and you can make it work with 2 as to not torque the tailgate...

Which makes me wonder with the damper are peoples cables slack... That would be an issue.

 

[kw86er]

From Gate King:

"At this time we still do not currently have a GATE KING® set available for the new Ford Maverick. Please note we are already preparing to go into production for this Model beginning January 2022.

However, although production is starting to roll out, we expect it will take a bit longer due to the pandemic situation"

 

[Rusty Tom]

I can remember the old chain and hook tailgate supports, and how noisy and rusty they became. The aircraft cable is a big improvement and it should not be a tall order to fab something up that will fix this. These cables likely cost Ford less than $4, but they would cost us far more on the aftermarket, without the economies of scale.

The only problem will be if Ford doesn't think it is important to enforce tolerances that will fix the issue. The gate doesn't need to be dead level, but it does need to do its job when transporting loads longer than 4'.

 

[Mikknj]

Since they rate the tailgate as a supporting structural member there could be a case that it is unsafe not to be level.

Wouldn't that be a biatch if people didn't get their Mav's due to a tailgate cable recall!

I would gladly pay for a replacement set, but who is going to make one? Ford would have to admit failure if they did and it's a pretty small item for the aftermarket.

Everyone keep this quiet - I want my Maverick to get delivered!!

 

[Mikknj]

I can remember the old chain and hook tailgate supports, and how noisy and rusty they became. The aircraft cable is a big improvement and it should not be a tall order to fab something up that will fix this. These cables likely cost Ford less than $4, but they would cost us far more on the aftermarket, without the economies of scale.

The only problem will be if Ford doesn't think it is important to enforce tolerances that will fix the issue. The gate doesn't need to be dead level, but it does need to do its job when transporting loads longer than 4'.

I'd even say that if they were a bit short and the gait tipped up it would be a far better situation- You don't want stuff to slide OUT on a down angle

They probably will have to fix this.
But knowing it now will not be an issue when I get my truck. It will get fixed one way or another

 

[tngreg]

Yeah I might do a little research on some other cable options.

The problem with parts stores these days is the kids behind the counter get so confused if they can't just type in the make and model... I have better luck shopping online most times because I can type the make and model just as easy. But if you are doing anything custom they get this look on their face like "don't waste my time old man" or "I wasn't trained for this... Year, Make and model please?"

AMEN! I worked in auto parts for few yrs after high school (Western Auto & a Ford dealer)..and the lack of knowledge and basic EFFORT the current "retail chains" agents have is down right shameful & ridiculous...
I mean it's like they don't even have an interest in automobiles.. Just warm bodies barely skilled above flipping a burger or stocking a shelf at retail store...

 

[mangler]

I'd even say that if they were a bit short and the gait tipped up it would be a far better situation- You don't want stuff to slide OUT on a down angle

They probably will have to fix this.
But knowing it now will not be an issue when I get my truck. It will get fixed one way or another

Also I have seen cables stretch, but I have yet to see one contract. A bit shorter out of the bag may be just the ticket to get it perfect down the road.

 

[999]

Surprised national/international media haven't picked up on this. Could be a Puitzer in this for someone who has the cojones to bust this shocking SCANDAL wide open. #tailgategate

 

[maverick4natic]

I find it hard to believe anyone on here doesn’t own another truck or know someone with a truck. Any word on how those are designed? Out of curiosity level or angle?

 

[kw86er]

I find it hard to believe anyone on here doesn’t own another truck or know someone with a truck. Any word on how those are designed? Out of curiosity level or angle?

I posted a pic of my other truck and it's level. Been driving trucks for 30 years. It is supposed to be level.

 

[lmellberg]

Simple fix - buy the tailgate assist: https://accessories.ford.com/products/tailgate-assist

Normally $50 - $45 through Friday

Takes about 20 minutes to install

(got mine even before my truck)

 

[Darksider]

The assist should not be used to stop the tailgate. This will put the shock at it limits with load on it ruining the seals in short time.

 

[clavicus]

Simple fix - buy the tailgate assist: https://accessories.ford.com/products/tailgate-assist

Normally $50 - $45 through Friday

Takes about 20 minutes to install

(got mine even before my truck)

I might not be an engineer but I feel like the tailgate assist is not meant to bear 500lbs load all by itself on one side lol. It's just for easing the tailgate down, eh?

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