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If you own a 2009-2018 Ram 1500, a tailgate assist can make everyday loading and unloading safer and less frustrating. These dampers slow the tailgate as it opens so it does not fall or slam, reducing risk of injury and limiting wear to the tailgate and cables. The right unit should match the Ram 1500 fitment, provide consistent damping across temperatures, and install cleanly without modifying structural parts. This guide covers our top seven shortlisted tailgate assists for the 2009-2018 Ram 1500, explaining the evaluation criteria you should care about and what to expect during installation and use. Read on to see which options best balance ease of use, durability, and fitment for that model range.
Looking for other parts? See all Ram 1500 parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall Tailgate Assist The best all-around tailgate assist balancing performance and ease | DEE ZEE DZ43301 Tailgate Assist |  |
| Best Budget Tailgate Assist A low-cost option that still improves tailgate control and safety | Orion Motor Tech Tailgate Assist Kit for Ram 1500/2500/3500 (2009–2018) |  |
| Best Premium Tailgate Assist Higher-end components and finish for long-term durability and feel | Barricade Off-Road Tailgate Assist, Damping Strut for Ram 1500 (2009–2018) |  |
| Best Gas-Strut Tailgate Assist Uses gas struts for smoother, more consistent tailgate motion control | HICKS Tailgate Assist Gas Strut for 2009–2022 RAM 1500/HD |  |
| Best Heavy-Duty Tailgate Assist Built with thicker hardware and stronger damping for frequent heavy use | Rough Country Tailgate Assist for Ram 1500/2500/3500 |  |
| Best Compact Tailgate Assist Smaller-profile units that save space and fit tight installation areas | ARANA Tailgate Assist Shock for Dodge Ram 1500/2500/3500 (Rear Left) |  |
| Best Adjustable Tailgate Assist Allows tuning of damping or lift force to match user preference | Nilight Tailgate Assist Shock Kit for Dodge Ram 1500/2500/3500 |  |
DEE ZEE DZ43301 Tailgate Assist
Best Overall Tailgate Assist
| Model Number | DZ43301 |
|---|---|
| Item Type | Tailgate Assist |
| Material Type | Aluminum |
| Installation | No-drill, driver side |
The Dee Zee DZ43301 is a purpose-built tailgate assist designed to slow and control the drop of a Ram truck tailgate so it can be opened with one hand and without a loud slam. It mounts on the driver side and uses a single compressed-gas shock to dampen the tailgate while working with the factory cables. Installation is straightforward for the 2009–2018 Ram 1500 and similar Ram models covered by the part application: the kit includes the shock, mounting hardware, and improved nutsert with thread lock so no drilling is required and typical installs take under 30 minutes with common hand tools. In use the assist reduces stress on the hinge and cables and gives a smooth, predictable motion that protects the tailgate and anyone nearby. A few users note the small cable clip or sleeve guide can be fiddly or unnecessary on some trucks, but that does not affect the core dampening function. For most Ram owners the Dee Zee unit is a simple, durable upgrade that adds everyday convenience and long-term protection.
Best for: Ram owners who want a reliable, easy-to-install upgrade that lets them lower the tailgate smoothly with one hand and reduces wear on the hinge and cables.
Less Ideal for: Buyers who prefer an adjustable multi-stage damper or a two-sided assist design should consider other options.
- Vehicle-specific design for easy fitment and no-drill installation
- Includes mounting hardware and improved nutsert with thread lock
- Single gas-dampened shock provides smooth, controlled tailgate lowering
- Reduces strain on cables and hinge to extend component life
- Cable clip or sleeve guide can be awkward to install and may require omission on some trucks
Verdict: The best overall tailgate assist delivers smooth, controlled tailgate movement with durable construction and straightforward installation, making it the ideal choice for most buyers.
Orion Motor Tech Tailgate Assist Kit for Ram 1500/2500/3500 (2009–2018)
Best Budget Tailgate Assist
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | 2009-2018 Ram 1500 2500 3500 |
|---|---|
| Material Type | Carbon Steel |
| Auto Part Position | Rear |
| Included Components | Tailgate shock, mount plate, nutsert, nutsert tool, hardware |
The Orion Motor Tech tailgate assist adds a hydraulic damper and reinforced mounting plate to control the tailgate on Ram 1500/2500/3500 models from 2009 through 2018. Installation uses the included hardware and basic hand tools with no drilling or tail-light removal, and the kit is designed to reduce slam and make the gate easier to close when your hands are full. The steel mount plate and electroplated 45 steel shock give a durable feel, and user reports show straightforward fitment and easy install for most owners. At this price point the unit delivers clear practical benefits: gentler descent protects cables and hinges and reduces jarring when loading the bed. Expect variability in long-term durability based on usage and exposure, and some customers report parts or fasteners failing after extended service, so periodic inspection is advised. Customer support experiences vary but replacements have been issued in reported cases, making this a sensible low-cost upgrade if you want improved tailgate control without spending much.
Best for: Buyers who want the lowest-cost way to stop tailgate slam and make opening and closing easier on a 2009–2018 Ram, and who value simple DIY installation over premium materials.
Less Ideal for: Owners seeking a heavy-duty, long-lasting commercial solution or a factory-equivalent two-shock system should consider higher-end or OEM replacements instead.
- Vehicle-specific fit for 2009–2018 Ram 1500/2500/3500 simplifies installation
- Includes reinforced mount plate and hardware for a stronger attachment than some competitors
- Hydraulic damper slows tailgate drop and makes closing easier with one hand
- Made from structural-grade 45 steel with electroplated finish for corrosion resistance
- Some users report limited lifespan of small fasteners or clips under heavy use
Verdict: The best budget tailgate assist provides reliable slow-down and easier lifting at a low price, ideal for shoppers prioritizing cost while still wanting improved tailgate operation.
Barricade Off-Road Tailgate Assist, Damping Strut for Ram 1500 (2009–2018)
Best Premium Tailgate Assist
| Manufacturer | Barricade Off-Road |
|---|---|
| Fits | Ram 1500 2009–2018 |
| Item Weight | 11.2 ounces |
| Manufacturer Part Number | R108875 |
This tailgate assist replaces the abrupt drop of a stock tailgate with a damping strut that controls opening and holds the gate for single-handed use. It is a bolt-on kit that uses existing mounting points so installation can be completed with basic hand tools in under 30 minutes without drilling. In use the unit noticeably reduces slam and provides a slower, more controlled lowering action that feels like a factory upgrade. Practical features include a driver-side fitment specific to 2009–2018 Ram 1500 models and hardware intended to secure the stud and cable assembly. Some buyers report brittle or weak installation bolts and minor fitment fiddling with the cable protector, so you may want a stronger replacement bolt on hand and a bit of patience routing the cable. Durability reports vary with heavy daily use causing failures for a small number of owners, but many users praise the improved feel and the simple installation process.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize a quieter, factory-style tailgate operation and want a simple bolt-on upgrade for a 2009–2018 Ram 1500 willing to prepare for minor installation fiddling.
Less Ideal for: If you need a lifetime commercial-grade solution for extremely heavy daily use, consider heavy-duty or professional-grade alternatives installed by a shop.
- Soft, controlled tailgate opening that prevents slamming
- Straightforward bolt-on installation using factory mounting points
- Fits Ram 1500 models from 2009–2018 without modifications
- Improves one-handed tailgate operation and user convenience
- Some supplied fasteners reported as weak or prone to breaking
- A few users reported limited durability under very frequent daily use
Verdict: The best premium tailgate assist uses superior materials and refined engineering for the quietest, most durable operation and is suited to buyers willing to pay for long-term quality.
HICKS Tailgate Assist Gas Strut for 2009–2022 RAM 1500/HD
Best Gas-Strut Tailgate Assist
| Compatible Vehicles | 2009–2018 Ram 1500; 2019–2022 Ram 1500 Classic; 2010–2022 Ram HD 1500/2500/3500 |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 153-0002 / DZ43301 |
| Auto Part Position | Upper |
| Material Type | Metal |
This HICKS tailgate assist uses a pressurized gas strut to control tailgate lowering and assist opening on compatible RAM 1500 and HD models. It mounts on the driver side and includes the necessary hardware for installation, so it functions as a direct-style replacement for the factory upper support. In use it provides the predictable damping and lift help you expect from a gas shock, reducing slam and making the tailgate easier to raise with one hand. Notable features are vehicle-specific fitment, metal construction, and lengths matched to the original part (extended 13.23 in, compressed 8.74 in). Practical benefits include smoother operation and reduced stress on the tailgate cable and hinge. Limitations to consider are mixed user feedback on durability and one reported failure at a mounting point, so expect variable long-term reliability compared with higher-end branded parts. Installation requires basic hand tools and a little patience when aligning the fittings but does not require drilling on stock tailgates.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize smooth, controlled tailgate lowering and easy one-hand lifting on compatible Ram trucks and want a pressurized strut that mimics factory assist behavior.
Less Ideal for: Shoppers who need the highest long-term durability or heavy-duty aftermarket upgrades should consider premium OEM replacement options or reinforced assemblies instead.
- Provides smooth, predictable damping and assisted lift thanks to a pressurized gas strut
- Vehicle-specific design for direct replacement on 2009–2018 Ram 1500 and 2019–2022 Ram 1500 Classic and 2010–2022 Ram HD models
- Comes with mounting hardware for a mostly bolt-on installation without drilling
- Metal construction and factory-matching stroke length for realistic operation
- Some users report premature failure at mounting points, indicating inconsistent long-term durability
Verdict: The best gas-strut tailgate assist is for buyers who want the smoothest, most predictable damping and lift support provided by pressurized struts rather than springs or cables.
Rough Country Tailgate Assist for Ram 1500/2500/3500
Best Heavy-Duty Tailgate Assist
| Model | 73213 |
|---|---|
| Included Components | (1) Tailgate Assist |
| Material Type | Alloy Steel, Rubber, Zinc |
| Auto Part Position | Rear |
The Rough Country Tailgate Assist is a reinforced replacement lift support designed to slow and control tailgate descent on Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks. It installs on the driver side and works with the factory cables to prevent tailgate slams, making one-handed bed access quieter and safer during loading and everyday use. Construction uses plated steel and zinc components intended for regular, heavy use on work trucks, and the kit includes the strut, mounting bracket, and hardware. Installation requires drilling a larger hole in the tailgate and installing a nutsert, so owners should be prepared with a 17/32 drill bit and a rivet nut tool or expect a shop install; some users report minor bracket tweaking to clear taillight housings. The unit is backed by a three-year manufacturer warranty and fits many Ram model years within the 2009 to 2018 scope of this article, offering a durable, aftermarket option when a stronger factory-style assist is desired.
Best for: Drivers who use their Ram truck frequently for heavy or regular loading and want a stronger aftermarket tailgate assist built to handle repeated, demanding use with a factory-style mounting approach.
Less Ideal for: Casual owners who lack tools or who prefer a zero-drill, hidden OEM-style replacement should consider factory-replacement options instead.
- Designed specifically for Ram 1500/2500/3500 fitment across the covered model years
- Durable construction using plated A1018 steel and zinc components for long-term use
- Provides smooth, controlled one-handed lowering to prevent tailgate slams
- Includes mounting bracket and hardware and is covered by a three-year warranty
- Requires drilling and installation of a rivet nut using a 17/32 drill bit and nutsert tool
- Instructions and included hardware may require tweaking for exact fit around taillight or hitch areas
Verdict: The best heavy-duty tailgate assist is designed for frequent, demanding use with reinforced components and higher load tolerance to resist wear under tougher conditions.
ARANA Tailgate Assist Shock for Dodge Ram 1500/2500/3500 (Rear Left)
Best Compact Tailgate Assist
| Fitment years | 2009-2026 |
|---|---|
| Position | Rear Left |
| Included components | Gas Struts ×1 |
| Material Type | 45th Carbon Steel |
This ARANA tailgate assist installs on the driver side hinge and slows the heavy Ram tailgate so it drops in a controlled, soft-open motion instead of slamming. It is a single gas dampener sold as one pack that mounts with factory-style bolts and does not require drilling, so installation typically takes 10–15 minutes using the included hardware and basic hand tools. The unit uses a seamless cylinder and double-seal design intended to resist cold-weather stiffening, and the painted carbon-steel construction looks like a durable, factory-style add-on. Practical benefits are immediate: easier one-handed operation, reduced tailgate wear, and a more refined feel. Limitations to note are that it replaces the driver's-side internal damper method and may interfere with some tie-down points or require minor fitting on older or rusted hinge hardware; a few users reported paint chipping on brackets and occasional alignment tweaks during install. For buyers who want a compact, bolt-on soft-open solution for Ram tailgates, this delivers straightforward function at a low price point.
Best for: Buyers who need a low-profile, compact tailgate assist that fits tight mounting areas on Ram trucks and prioritizes quick, bolt-on installation and dependable soft-open performance.
Less Ideal for: If you want a visibly symmetrical two-sided solution or need a full OEM-style internal replacement on both sides, this single, external dampener may not meet that requirement.
- Vehicle-specific fit for 2009–2026 Ram 1500/2500/3500 for driver-side installation
- Bolt-on design requires no drilling and installs in about 10–15 minutes
- Seamless cylinder and double-seal construction reduces cold-weather performance issues
- Includes hardware and basic tools for installation
- Sold as a single-side unit so only one dampener is provided rather than a matched pair
- Paint on brackets can chip if handled roughly during installation
- May require minor fitting or trimming on older trucks with rusted or misaligned hinge bolts
Verdict: The best compact tailgate assist is ideal for buyers needing a low-profile unit that clears tight mounting areas while still providing dependable assist performance.
Nilight Tailgate Assist Shock Kit for Dodge Ram 1500/2500/3500
Best Adjustable Tailgate Assist
| Compatible models | Dodge Ram 1500/2500/3500 (listed years) |
|---|---|
| Material | Structural-grade steel |
| Mount type | Riveted mount plate |
| Technology | Nitrogen-filled gas spring |
The Nilight Tailgate Assist is a bolt-on gas spring intended to slow the tailgate drop and provide lift help when closing on compatible Dodge Ram trucks. Installation is marketed as simple with no drilling required and basic hand tools; the kit includes a riveted mount plate and an anchored gas shock that uses compressed nitrogen and enhanced seals to resist leaks. In use it smooths tailgate motion, reduces stress on cables and hinges, and feels noticeably easier to lower and raise compared with an unsupported tailgate. Notable claims include a long cycle life rating and corrosion-resistant electroplated steel construction. Practical limitations show up in quality control and fitment details: several buyers reported missing or incorrect hardware, a stripped anchor bolt during install, and included small tools that did not fit some truck bolts. The product appears to perform well when installed correctly, but expect to verify hardware and have basic tools and patience for a trouble-free setup.
Best for: DIY owners of 2009–2018 Ram 1500s (and compatible Ram 2500/3500 models in the listed years) who want a bolt-on damper to slow drop and make tailgate closing easier while willing to fine-tune fitment and verify hardware.
Less Ideal for: Buyers who want a fully plug-and-play, guaranteed-perfect fitment out of the box or those who lack basic hand tools and experience with light vehicle installs.
- Designed specifically to slow tailgate drop and assist lifting for Dodge Ram 1500/2500/3500
- Nitrogen-filled gas spring and advanced seals reduce thermal effects and oil leaks
- Electroplated structural steel and riveted mount plate for corrosion resistance and durability
- No drilling installation with basic wrenching expected for most models
- Some customers received missing or incorrect mounting hardware
- Reported issues with included small tools not fitting truck bolts
- Anchor bolt has been reported to strip during installation on some units
Verdict: The best adjustable tailgate assist offers user-adjustable damping or tension so DIYers can fine-tune opening speed and lift assistance for personal preference or cargo situations.
Choosing the Right 2009-2018 Ram 1500 Tailgate Assist: Key Factors to Consider
Fitment and Compatibility
Correct fitment matters because the tailgate hinge and cable geometry on a 2009-2018 Ram 1500 determine the mounting points and stroke needed for a damper to work. A poorly fitting unit can bind, fail to control descent, or create uneven load on hinge components.
When evaluating fitment, confirm that the kit references the 2009-2018 Ram 1500 explicitly and that included brackets match the factory mounting locations. Consider whether the kit requires drilling, cutting, or permanent modification; owners seeking a reversible installation should favor bolt-on solutions that use factory holes or supplied brackets. Also check that the damper's stroke length and travel range accommodate the full open-to-closed arc of the Ram 1500 tailgate to avoid bottoming out or leaving the gate unsupported.
Damping Performance and Stroke
Damping quality determines how smoothly and predictably the tailgate lowers. Look for a unit that provides consistent resistance from initial drop to fully open so the gate does not accelerate suddenly at any point.
Stroke length and the damper's force profile should match the tailgate weight and hinge geometry on the Ram 1500 to provide steady deceleration. Some designs offer progressive damping that increases resistance as the gate nears the closed position, which helps prevent a final soft slam. Temperature sensitivity is also important; choose dampers rated to function across typical local temperature ranges so performance does not degrade on cold mornings or hot afternoons.
Materials and Corrosion Resistance
Tailgate components are exposed to road grime, salt, and weather, so materials and finishes affect durability. Corrosion-resistant housings, stainless-steel fasteners, and sealed piston assemblies reduce the risk of binding or failure over time.
Pay attention to protective coatings on brackets and linkages; powder-coat or plated finishes extend life on trucks used in wet or salted conditions. Seals and boots around moving parts help keep grit out of the piston and preserve smooth damping. Selecting a kit with robust materials reduces long-term maintenance and helps the unit remain consistent in operation.
Mounting Hardware and Installation
How a tailgate assist installs affects whether you can fit it yourself and whether it can be removed later. Bolt-on kits that use factory holes or include well-designed brackets will usually install with common hand tools in under an hour.
Kits that require drilling or trimming may still be secure but add complexity and risk of improper alignment. Consider whether the package includes clear instructions, quality fasteners, and any spacers or shims needed to achieve correct geometry. Ease of installation also affects future maintenance; a clean, reversible mount makes service or replacement easier.
Operational Reliability and Maintenance
Reliability matters because a failed damper can leave the tailgate uncontrolled or place extra strain on hinge components. Choose designs with sealed pistons, recognizable wear parts, and accessible mounting points to facilitate inspection and service.
Check whether the damper requires periodic checks or lubrication and whether replacement parts such as brackets or fasteners are commonly available. Simpler mechanical dampers without complex valves or electronic components tend to be easier to maintain over many years, especially in heavy-use settings like work trucks.
Noise and Vibration
A well-chosen tailgate assist should operate quietly and without introducing rattles or vibration to the tailgate. Excessive noise can indicate misalignment, worn bushings, or inappropriate damping force.
Inspect mounting bracket tolerances and whether the kit includes rubber bushings or vibration-isolating mounts to reduce noise. Consider route of linkage so it does not contact the bed or body panels at the extremes of travel. Quiet operation improves the perceived quality of the tailgate and prevents distraction during everyday use.
How Tailgate Assists Work on the Ram 1500
Tailgate assists for the 2009-2018 Ram 1500 use a damped actuator or shock assembly mounted between the tailgate and the bed or hinge area to control the speed of descent. As the tailgate opens, the piston extends and flows oil or gas through internal valving, providing resistance that slows rotation and prevents free fall.
Because the Ram 1500 tailgate follows a defined arc, a properly designed assist matches stroke length and mounting geometry so resistance is applied at the correct point during travel. The result is a consistent, controlled lowering action that reduces stress on cables and hinge points and protects cargo and people from sudden drops.
- Most kits are mechanical and require no electrical connection
- Damping works through hydraulic or gas-valve mechanisms inside the piston
- Correct bracket geometry is essential for smooth operation
Installation Tips and Common Pitfalls
Prepare the tailgate by supporting it fully during installation to avoid strain on cables or hinges. Follow torque specs for any bolts and verify alignment before tightening final fasteners. Use the supplied spacers or shims if alignment looks off; misaligned mounts are a frequent cause of binding or noise.
Avoid over-tightening link points that should pivot; snug but free-moving joints produce the smoothest operation. If a kit requires drilling, mark and pilot drill carefully and protect surrounding paint to reduce corrosion risk. After installation, cycle the tailgate several times unloaded and then with typical cargo to confirm consistent damping.
- Support tailgate during install to prevent cable tension issues
- Check for interference with bed liners or tailgate covers
- Cycle multiple times and inspect fasteners for loosening
Maintaining Smooth Operation Over Time
Regularly inspect mounting hardware for corrosion and retorque bolts after the first few weeks of use. Clean exposed piston rods and seals of grit and road grime and check rubber bushings for wear. If a kit uses a protective boot, ensure it remains intact to keep contaminants out of the piston.
If damping changes noticeably, investigate for bent brackets or worn pivots before assuming internal failure. Many issues trace back to alignment or hardware loosening rather than the damper itself, so a quick check of bracket position and fastener tightness often restores smooth operation.
- Inspect fasteners after initial break-in and periodically thereafter
- Replace worn bushings to prevent metal-on-metal contact
- Keep pivot areas clean and protected from salt and grit
When to Replace or Service a Tailgate Assist
Replace the damper if you notice rapid descent, audible hissing, excessive play at pivot points, or fluid leakage. These symptoms indicate internal wear or seal failure and reduce the unit's ability to control the tailgate reliably. Addressing failures promptly prevents added stress to the tailgate cables and hinges.
Serviceable kits with replaceable bushings or easily swapped brackets can extend life and lower long-term ownership cost. If the mounting hardware corrodes or bends, replace brackets first and verify the new hardware restores correct geometry before replacing the piston assembly.
- Look for leaks, rapid descent, or new rattles as replacement triggers
- Consider bracket replacement before the damper if alignment is off
- Choose repairable designs when long service life is needed
Compatibility With Accessories and Bed Configurations
Confirm clearances if your Ram 1500 uses a bed liner, tailgate cap, or tonneau cover. Some liners add thickness or change edge geometry and can interfere with bracket placement or piston travel. Measure clearance at full open and closed positions to ensure the assist does not contact accessories.
If you run a heavy bed liner or aftermarket edge trim, consider kits that provide adjustable brackets or longer mounting hardware to maintain correct geometry. Keep in mind that added accessories can change the weight distribution of the tailgate and may slightly alter damping feel, so choose a kit with an appropriate force profile for the modified tailgate.
- Check for interference with bed liners and tailgate caps
- Adjust brackets or choose longer hardware when necessary
- Expect slight changes in damping with heavier trim or covers
Still looking for the perfect fit?
Select your Ram 1500 configuration to see the most relevant Tailgate Assists recommendations
How We Chose the Best 2009-2018 Ram 1500 Tailgate Assist
We prioritized products that specifically list compatibility with the 2009-2018 Ram 1500 and that provide consistent damping across common working temperatures. Key evaluation criteria included proven fitment to the Ram 1500 tailgate hinge and striker geometry, damping consistency and stroke length to control descent, material and corrosion resistance for road and weather exposure, and ease of installation using common hand tools. We also considered mounting hardware quality, actuator or shock design that avoids binding, and whether the unit preserves factory cable or hinge function without cutting or welding. Exclusions: we excluded universal kits that require extensive fabrication, units that noticeably interfere with tailgate alignment, and any solution lacking clear fitment guidance for the 2009-2018 Ram 1500. Our final list emphasizes balanced performance, longevity, and straightforward installation for owners who want dependable, soft-close behavior without extensive modification.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
Will a tailgate assist work with my 2009-2018 Ram 1500 bed liner installed?
Often it will, but compatibility depends on the liner's thickness and edge profile. Measure clearance at mounting points and full tailgate travel. Choose a kit with adjustable brackets or longer hardware if the liner interferes with stock mounting locations.
Can I install a tailgate assist myself with basic tools?
Usually yes. Many kits are bolt-on and install with common hand tools in under an hour. Support the tailgate during installation and follow the included instructions. If drilling is required and you are not comfortable, have a shop handle that step.
How long do tailgate dampers typically last on a Ram 1500?
Lifespan varies by material, environment, and use. Sealed, well-made dampers can last several years under normal use, while harsh climates with road salt or heavy daily use may shorten life. Regular inspection and maintenance extend service life.
Will a tailgate assist prevent all tailgate slams on the Ram 1500?
A properly sized and installed assist will greatly reduce the chance of a slam by controlling descent, but extreme force or damaged components can still allow rapid closure. Ensure mounting geometry and fasteners are correct for consistent soft-close performance.
Does a tailgate assist affect the tailgate cables or hinges?
When fitted correctly the assist reduces stress on cables and hinges by controlling descent. Incorrect alignment or a poorly matched unit can introduce additional loads, so follow fitment guidance and use brackets that maintain factory geometry.
Are replacement parts available for common wear items?
It depends on the design. Many manufacturers supply replacement bushings, fasteners, or brackets, while sealed piston assemblies are sometimes sold separately. Favor kits with available hardware and replaceable wear parts for easier long-term upkeep.
Final Verdict
For the 2009-2018 Ram 1500, prioritize a tailgate assist that matches factory mounting geometry, provides consistent damping across temperatures, and uses corrosion-resistant materials. Pay attention to installation complexity and whether the kit preserves reversible mounting so you can return to stock if needed. Balancing reliable damping performance with durable hardware and straightforward installation will give the best long-term result and prevent tailgate slams while reducing wear on hinge and cable components.
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