Adding the OEM hidden tailgate strut to any trim.

[Rockcrawlindude]

This looks like a great mod., but I don’t have the right fob and really just want the tailgate to open slowly and not fall. Does this strut work like the Deezee version?

Nothing else is required. It just lowers your tailgate smoothly. Much better than the deezee version because the mounting balls are already there.

 

[H3LZSN1P3R]

This looks like a great mod., but I don’t have the right fob and really just want the tailgate to open slowly and not fall. Does this strut work like the Deezee version?

Yup same idea but if no need to remove if you take the tailgate off it stays on the truck

 

[Wmhjr]

Finally got around to putting my strut on. Thanks very much for the informative post and pics. This was super easy, and inexpensive. Can't believe Ram just doesn't make this standard.

 

[GARY10825]

Has anyone installed this on a 2020 RAM 3500. When I look up the part number it says it wont fit. Thanks!

 

[Rockcrawlindude]

Has anyone installed this on a 2020 RAM 3500. When I look up the part number it says it wont fit. Thanks!

I don’t mean to be that guy ... but take a peek and see if the little knobs are there. If they are, it’ll work. you’re looking for the ball portion of a ball-and-socket joint.

The pic I posted above is not hidden behind any panel, it’s just looking into the cavity below the passenger side taillight. The other knob is behind the passenger taillight. Torx 25 and pull straight back on the light.

 

[GARY10825]

Thanks! I have already looked and the knobs are there. When I look the part number up on Mopar's website they don't have the 2020 or 2021 RAM 3500 listed as being compatible. They show a 2019 RAM 3500. Just wanting to verify before I purchase.

 

[b307a1]

Thanks! I have already looked and the knobs are there. When I look the part number up on Mopar's website they don't have the 2020 or 2021 RAM 3500 listed as being compatible. They show a 2019 RAM 3500. Just wanting to verify before I purchase.

Yep, it fits....I put one on mine.

 

[GARY10825]

THANKS!

 

[H3LZSN1P3R]

I don’t mean to be that guy ... but take a peek and see if the little knobs are there. If they are, it’ll work. you’re looking for the ball portion of a ball-and-socket joint.

The pic I posted above is not hidden behind any panel, it’s just looking into the cavity below the passenger side taillight. The other knob is behind the passenger taillight. Torx 25 and pull straight back on the light.

Just fyi all of the 19+ hd rams have the balls.... and also the mounting points for the tailgate lowering strut lol

 

[Branog]

Adding the strut took almost as much time as opening the packaging. Well worth it

I agree. Easy install.

 

[Wpg_Ram]

That connector is for the power sliding rear window switch. It can’t be used for tailgate release. You would need the whole overhead console with the tailgate release button for that.

Wait, wat? Sorry for replying to an old comment you made ... BUT ... Wiring there for power sliding rear window ? My sold window needs replacement ....

 

[Send2joey]

Just installed, about the easiest thing you could do. As others have said, took me longer to open the package the strut came in. Was a little worried about the taillight removal - pulling hard enough and in the right direction. Now to work on the FOB to open remotely.

 

[RednBlack]

I heard you can install the strut from under the truck without removing the taillight... has anyone tried it?

Sent from my SM-G981U using Tapatalk

 

[H3LZSN1P3R]

I heard you can install the strut from under the truck without removing the taillight... has anyone tried it?

Sent from my SM-G981U using Tapatalk

The bottom stud yes but you would need some itty bitty hands to get the top one from underneath

 

[Christofo]

Does anyone have a source for the tailgate strut (68362518AA)?

I have tried to ordered it from multiple sources and have been told its backordered with no ETA.

Anyone know of an alternative?

 

[pacu44]

This guy does a step by step

 

[Brutal_HO]

This guy does a step by step

LOL, way too many unnecessary steps.

Never, ever, have I removed a clip to install a strut. They simply push on.

 

[Rockcrawlindude]

Does anyone have a source for the tailgate strut (68362518AA)?

I have tried to ordered it from multiple sources and have been told its backordered with no ETA.

Anyone know of an alternative?

The alternative “dee zee” tailgate strut kit thing is total ass.

Wait for the real part in this thread to become available

 

[Brutal_HO]

The alternative “dee zee” tailgate strut kit thing is total ass.

Wait for the real part in this thread to become available

I had one on my 04.5 and it rubbed and made the gate harder to shut (was also Line-X).

It also closed harder, so it was mostly unidirectional...

 

[pacu44]

The alternative “dee zee” tailgate strut kit thing is total ass.

Wait for the real part in this thread to become available

several sites say part # now discontinued