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A properly functioning tailgate assist transforms everyday use of your Ram Dakota by preventing sudden drops and easing one-person operation. Whether you regularly load gear, carry heavy cargo, or simply want to avoid a dented tailgate, the right assist restores controlled, predictable lowering and reduces wear on the latch.This guide covers seven shortlisted tailgate assists chosen for their fitment, reliability, and installation practicality for the Ram Dakota. We focus on how each option affects safety, durability, and day-to-day convenience, plus the installation steps and maintenance to keep the system working smoothly.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall Tailgate Assist Top all-around damper balancing fit, durability, and easy installation | DEE ZEE DZ43301 Tailgate Assist |  |
| Best Budget Tailgate Assist Affordable soft‑open damper that still controls tailgate drop reliably | Orion Motor Tech Tailgate Assist Kit for 2009–2025 Ram Trucks |  |
| Best Vehicle‑Specific Fit Tailgate Assist A model engineered to match factory mounting points for exact fit | Dee Zee Tailgate Assist (2019–2023 Ram 1500) |  |
| Best No‑Drill Bolt‑On Tailgate Assist Bolt‑on kit that installs using existing holes—no drilling required | ARANA Tailgate Assist Shock for Dodge Ram 1500/2500/3500 (2009–2025) |  |
| Best Heavy‑Duty Steel Tailgate Assist Thicker plate or structural‑grade steel build for rugged daily use | Rough Country Tailgate Assist for Ram 1500/2500/3500 (2010–2026) |  |
| Best Complete DIY Kit Tailgate Assist Includes hardware, blind‑nut tool, torx/wrenches, and mounting accessories | IAQWE 43301 Tailgate Assist Shock Kit for Dodge Ram |  |
| Best Weather‑Resistant Tailgate Assist Corrosion‑resistant finish and protective seals for long outdoor life | URSA 4X4 Tailgate Assist Shock Kit for Ram 1500/2500/3500 |  |
1. DEE ZEE DZ43301 Tailgate Assist
Best Overall Tailgate Assist
| Manufacturer | Dee Zee |
|---|---|
| Model Number | DZ43301 |
| Material Type | Aluminum |
| Installation | No-drill; hardware included |
| Location | Driver’s side |
The Dee Zee DZ43301 Tailgate Assist is a single dampened gas shock designed to mount to the driver side and slow the tailgate as it opens. It works with factory cables to prevent the typical free-fall slam, letting you lower the tailgate with one hand and reducing stress on the hinge and cables. Installation is straightforward and no drilling is required for correct-fit applications; the kit includes mounting hardware and is intended to install in under 30 minutes with basic tools. The unit is made from aluminum and is sold as a vehicle-specific part, so fitment checks are important before purchase. Performance is steady and durable under regular use, and the dampening noticeably softens the drop compared with an unassisted tailgate. The product is not a powered lift and only provides controlled lowering rather than automatic opening, so users seeking motorized operation will need a different solution. Also it requires the correct model-specific part number to avoid fitment issues on some years and trims.
Best for: Buyers who want a dependable, easy DIY upgrade that reliably slows tailgate drop and reduces wear on a Ram pickup without major modification.
Less Ideal for: If you want a motorized or assisted opening tailgate or a universal-fit part for multiple vehicles, choose a different powered or adjustable system.
- Provides smooth, controlled tailgate lowering to prevent slams and reduce hinge strain
- No-drill installation with included mounting hardware for most model-specific fits
- Aluminum construction and a compressed gas shock designed for repeated use
- Designed to work with factory cables for simple retrofit
- Single-shock design only controls lowering and does not assist powered opening
Verdict: The Best Overall pick is the unit that combines a reliable fit, smooth slow‑lower performance, and straightforward DIY installation for most Ram trucks.
2. Orion Motor Tech Tailgate Assist Kit for 2009–2025 Ram Trucks
Best Budget Tailgate Assist
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
|---|---|
| Material Type | Carbon Steel |
| Maximum Lifting Height | 14.4 Inches |
| Included Components | Tailgate Shock, Mount Plate, Nutsert Tool, Hardware |
This Orion Motor Tech tailgate assist is a straightforward damper kit that replaces the free-fall behavior of a Ram pickup tailgate with a controlled, slow drop and lighter lift. It mounts to the rear tailgate area with the included hardware and nutsert tool so no drilling or tail-light removal is required, making it a DIY-friendly install for someone comfortable with basic hand tools. The kit uses a structural-grade 45# steel shock and mount plate with electroplated finish for corrosion resistance, and the damper reduces stress on cables and hinge points to help extend component life. It is vehicle-specific for Ram trucks from 2009 through 2025, so fitment is focused and installation steps match factory mounting locations. Expect a big improvement in usability over a stock free-fall tailgate, though this is a simple mechanical damper rather than a gas strut system and offers basic functionality appropriate to its price point.
Best for: Buyers who want an inexpensive, do-it-yourself upgrade that prevents tailgate slams and extends hinge and cable life on Ram trucks without complex installation.
Less Ideal for: If you want a powered, effortless lift or the smoothest possible assisted opening, consider a gas-strut or premium powered kit instead.
- Vehicle-specific fit for 2009–2025 Ram 1500/2500/3500 simplifies installation
- Includes complete hardware and nutsert tool so no drilling or tail-light removal is needed
- Structural-grade 45# steel construction with electroplated finish for basic corrosion resistance
- Controls tailgate drop and eases closing to reduce strain on cables and hinges
- Not a powered or gas-strut lift so it only dampens drop and provides limited assist on opening
Verdict: Choose the Budget pick when you want a low‑cost tailgate damper that prevents slams and is simple for a DIY install without sacrificing basic durability.
3. Dee Zee Tailgate Assist (2019–2023 Ram 1500)
Best Vehicle‑Specific Fit Tailgate Assist
| Fitment | 2019–2023 Ram 1500 |
|---|---|
| Shock type | Compressed gas shock |
| Location | Driver side installation |
| Installation | No-drill, mounts to factory points |
Dee Zee’s DZ43302 tailgate assist is a single compressed-gas shock that mounts to the driver side to dampen the tailgate drop on 2019–2023 Ram 1500 trucks. It works with the factory cables and uses the truck’s existing mounting points so installation is plug-and-play and requires no drilling; the maker says it can be fitted in under 30 minutes with common hand tools. In use the shock controls the tailgate so it lowers smoothly on a single-finger release and eliminates the hard slam that wears hinge points and stresses the cables. The kit includes mounting hardware and is aluminum-bodied for durability. Limitations are the single-shock design, which only dampens the drop rather than lifting or supporting extra weight, and the unit is driver-side only so it still relies on factory cables and hinges for full support. For owners who want a quick, vehicle-matched upgrade to prevent slamming and reduce wear, this is an easy, durable solution tailored to the Ram 1500 platform.
Best for: Ram 1500 owners who prioritize a factory-matched, no-drill upgrade to stop tailgate slams and reduce stress on hinge points and cables.
Less Ideal for: Buyers who need powered or lift-assist functionality or those wanting a dual-shock solution for heavy-duty load support should consider other options.
- Vehicle-specific fit that uses factory mounting points for no-drill, plug-and-play installation
- Compressed gas shock provides smooth, controlled tailgate lowering and eliminates slams
- Includes mounting hardware and installs in minutes with basic hand tools
- Aluminum enclosure for corrosion resistance and long-term durability
- Single dampener only controls lowering and does not provide lifting assistance or full load support
Verdict: This label is for shock kits built to the truck's OEM mounting pattern so installers get a plug‑and‑play fit and usually no drilling.
4. ARANA Tailgate Assist Shock for Dodge Ram 1500/2500/3500 (2009–2025)
Best No‑Drill Bolt‑On Tailgate Assist
| Applicable models | Ram 1500/2500/3500 2009–2025 |
|---|---|
| Auto Part Position | Rear Left |
| Included Components | Gas Struts ×1 |
| Material Type | Carbon Steel |
The ARANA tailgate assist is a single-side gas strut designed to slow and control the drop of Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 tailgates from 2009 through 2025. It mounts to the driver-side factory bracket using included hardware and hand tools so no drilling or body modification is required. In use the strut provides a linear, damped opening that prevents the tailgate from slamming and makes loading and unloading safer when you operate the gate alone. The kit ships with the strut, tools and instructions and the manufacturer points to a quick 10-minute install after removing the driver-side bottle opener. Made from painted carbon steel with a sealed cylinder, the unit is intended to resist cold-weather rattle and offer a long service life. Limitations are that this is a one-piece kit meant for the left side only so it does not provide symmetric damping, and installation requires brief removal of a trim piece; buyers should follow fitment guidance closely to ensure compatibility with their Ram model year and configuration.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize a fast, damage-free install and want a factory-style bolt-on damper that makes single-person tailgate operation safer.
Less Ideal for: People who want identical damping on both sides, a fully symmetric solution, or those unwilling to remove a small trim piece during installation.
- No-drill bolt-on installation using factory mounting points and included hardware
- Provides smooth, linear soft-open dampening to prevent tailgate slam
- Quick install that can be completed with basic hand tools in about 10 minutes
- Sealed cylinder and double-seal design reduces rattle in cold weather
- Single-side kit for the driver side only, so it does not damp both hinges
Verdict: Pick this no‑drill option if you want a fast, damage‑free install that uses factory mounting points and basic hand tools.
5. Rough Country Tailgate Assist for Ram 1500/2500/3500 (2010–2026)
Best Heavy‑Duty Steel Tailgate Assist
| Model | 73213 |
|---|---|
| Material Type | Alloy Steel, Rubber, Zinc |
| Included Components | (1) Tailgate Assist |
| Auto Part Position | Rear |
| Warranty Description | Three‑year manufacturer's warranty |
This Rough Country tailgate assist replaces the single‑hand slam risk with a controlled, gradual lowering action that makes loading and unloading a Ram truck bed safer and quieter. It installs on the driver side and works with the factory tailgate cables to provide a damped drop; Rough Country includes the hardware needed and a plate‑style mount that bolts into place for a beefier connection than small brackets. The unit is built from A1018 plate steel with alloy steel, rubber, and zinc components intended for regular worksite use, and the damping action reduces strain when handling heavy tools or cargo. Installation requires minor drilling and a nutsert tool is recommended for the strongest fit. Expect a straightforward retrofit if you have basic hand tools and some mechanical aptitude. The product carries a three‑year manufacturer warranty, but note that only one assist is supplied per purchase and fitment is specific to Ram trucks in the listed years, so confirm your model year before buying.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize a tougher, worksite‑ready tailgate damper and a sturdy mount plate to withstand frequent heavy use on Ram trucks.
Less Ideal for: Owners who want a completely drill‑free, universal plug‑and‑play solution or who need a kit that covers multiple vehicles from a single purchase.
- Robust plate steel construction designed for heavy daily use on work trucks.
- Smooth, controlled damping reduces tailgate slams and one‑hand operation strain.
- Mounting hardware included for a secure driver‑side installation without replacing factory cables.
- Backed by a three‑year manufacturer warranty for defect coverage.
- Designed specifically for Ram 1500/2500/3500 fitment across the listed model years.
- Requires minor drilling and a nutsert tool for recommended installation which adds time and tools to the job.
Verdict: This heavy‑duty pick is for owners who need a beefier damper and mount plate that stand up to jobsite abuse and long service life.
6. IAQWE 43301 Tailgate Assist Shock Kit for Dodge Ram
Best Complete DIY Kit Tailgate Assist
| Brand | IAQWE |
|---|---|
| Model Number | 43301 |
| Auto Part Position | Rear Left |
| Included Components | Shock, ball mount plate, ball mount, cable clip, T45 Torx wrench, blind nut tool set, manual |
The IAQWE 43301 Tailgate Assist is a complete slow-close damper kit made to replace the factory tailgate support on compatible Dodge Ram pickups. It installs on the driver side and is designed to let the tailgate lower gently instead of slamming, which reduces wear and protects hands and cargo. The kit ships with a shock, ball mount hardware, cable clip, a T45 Torx wrench, a blind nut tool set and an illustrated manual so you can tackle the job as a single-person DIY project without extra trips to buy small parts. Construction uses a nitrogen-treated piston rod and a thickened steel cylinder for quieter, weather-resistant performance. Fitment is vehicle specific and the package includes the mounting hardware for a no-drill factory-style install on the listed Ram model years. Limitations: this part is made for the Dodge Ram fitment shown and only replaces the specified side; if you need universal fitment or both-side conversion you will need different parts.
Best for: Buyers who want a ready-to-install, vehicle-specific tailgate assist kit that includes the tools and hardware to complete the job themselves without extra trips for parts.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking a universal or dual-side kit, or those who prefer having a professional install both sides as part of a broader service should look elsewhere.
- Includes all necessary mounting hardware and tools for installation so no additional purchases are required
- Vehicle-specific design for a factory-style, no-drill install on the listed Dodge Ram model years
- Nitrogen-treated piston rod and thickened steel cylinder for quieter, weather-resistant operation
- Clear installation manual and supplied blind nut tool make DIY fitting accessible to non-professional installers
- Fits only the driver-side tailgate on the specified Dodge Ram years and is not a universal two-side kit
Verdict: Select the Complete DIY Kit when you want every tool and fastener needed in the box so you can install the assist without extra trips to the store.
7. URSA 4X4 Tailgate Assist Shock Kit for Ram 1500/2500/3500
Best Weather‑Resistant Tailgate Assist
| Compatible models | Ram 1500 2009-2018; Ram 1500 Classic 2019-2025; Ram 2500/3500 2010-2025 |
|---|---|
| Auto Part Position | Rear |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| Exterior Finish | Zinc |
The URSA 4X4 tailgate assist kit replaces the factory feel with gas struts that slow the tailgate drop and make lifting noticeably easier. Designed for Ram 1500 (2009–2018 and Classic 2019–2025) and Ram 2500/3500 (2010–2025), the kit fits without drilling and uses existing mounting points for a straightforward install. Its multi-material construction combines thickened steel with e-coating, stainless steel, and QPQ-processed parts to resist corrosion and wear, which helps the damper keep working reliably in wet or salty conditions. In use the struts take most of the tailgate weight, reducing stress on cables and hinges and giving a controlled, soft close. The manufacturer rates the unit for 100,000 cycles and includes hardware and instructions plus a two-year warranty. Limitations are that fitment is vehicle-specific so it is not a universal solution and durability claims depend on correct installation and maintenance over time.
Best for: Buyers who drive Rams in climates with frequent moisture, road salt, or dust and who want a sealed, corrosion-resistant assist that preserves factory mounting and reduces tailgate slam.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need a universal or one-size-fits-all assist for different trucks or those who prefer a simple cable replacement instead of a strut-based solution.
- Vehicle-specific fit for Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 models for straightforward compatibility
- Corrosion-resistant finishes and materials including e-coating, stainless steel, and QPQ treatment to protect the damper in wet or salty environments
- No-drill installation using existing mounting points with included hardware and instructions
- Reduces tailgate weight and stress on factory hinges and cables, providing a controlled soft-close and easier lifting
- Durability rating of 100,000 cycles and a two-year manufacturer warranty for added confidence
- Designed for specific Ram models only so it will not fit other vehicles
- Performance depends on correct installation and routine inspection of mounts and fasteners
Verdict: This pick highlights assists finished or electroplated and sealed against rust and grime to keep the damper working reliably through wet, salty, or dusty conditions.
Choosing the Right Ram Dakota Tailgate Assist: Key Factors to Consider
Fitment and Mounting Compatibility
Correct fitment is the single most important factor when choosing a tailgate assist for the Ram Dakota. Tailgate geometry, hinge location, and inner panel clearance vary by model and year, so an assist that mounts to the factory hinge or designated crossmember will provide consistent damping without fouling other components.
Improperly matched mounting hardware can cause binding, inconsistent damping, or accelerated wear of the tailgate hinge. Selecting an assist that uses the Dakota's existing attachment points reduces the chance of drilling or permanently altering the tailgate. Also consider whether brackets are welded, bolted, or use clamp-style fittings; bolted kits tend to be easier to service and reverse if you change your setup later.
Damping Characteristics and Load Range
Damping performance determines how smoothly the tailgate lowers under different loads. Look for assists rated to operate across the range of cargo weights you typically carry; a damper tuned for very light loads may not slow a heavily loaded tailgate enough, while an over-damped unit can make it hard to lower gradually.
Some systems have adjustable damping or interchangeable cartridges that allow you to tune the speed. Consistent damping across temperature extremes and after months of use is important, since gas and hydraulic characteristics can shift with age. For a pickup like the Dakota, choose a unit that maintains controlled lowering with common bed loads such as toolboxes, camping gear, or lumber.
Materials and Corrosion Resistance
Tailgate assists operate in the bed environment where moisture, road salt, and debris are common. Components made from stainless steel, zinc-plated steel, or durable powder-coated finishes will last longer and reduce the chance of binding or failure.
Pay attention to seals, bushings, and fasteners: rubber or polyurethane bushings resist wear and help isolate vibration, while quality seals prevent fluid loss in hydraulic dampers. Corrosion-resistant mounting brackets and hardware reduce the risk of fastener seizure during maintenance or removal.
Installation Complexity and Tools Required
Installation ease affects whether you can fit the assist at home and how long the job will take. Some tailgate assists install with basic hand tools and bolt into factory holes, allowing a straightforward swap in an hour or less. Others require removal of the inner tailgate panel, drilling, or bending brackets and are best handled with intermediate mechanical skills.
Consider whether the kit includes clear instructions, hardware, and any specialty brackets. If welding or permanent modification is required, factor in shop time or the ability to reverse the installation later. Kits that retain the factory latch function and do not require drilling into structural members are preferable for owners who value reversibility.
Maintenance and Serviceability
Think about long-term upkeep when selecting an assist. Damper kits with replaceable cartridges, readily available bushings, and standard fasteners make future repairs simpler and less costly. Systems that allow access to the damping element without full tailgate removal reduce time spent on maintenance.
Also consider whether the manufacturer provides replacement seals or service parts and how easy it is to purge air from hydraulic units if needed. Regular inspection points include fastener torque, bushing wear, and any signs of fluid leaks or rust. Easy-to-service designs extend the functional life of the assist and preserve tailgate alignment.
Noise, Smoothness, and User Experience
A good tailgate assist should reduce noise and provide a smooth, controlled motion every time. Look for systems that minimize rattle at rest and avoid abrupt stops or rebounds during lowering. Noise can indicate loose hardware or inadequate damping and can accelerate wear on latch components.
Ergonomic factors matter too, such as how the assist affects the feel when you raise the tailgate and whether it holds the tailgate at the open position securely. Some assists include features that lock the tailgate open or damp only during lowering; matching these behaviors to how you use the Dakota will improve day-to-day satisfaction.
Compatibility Notes for Dakotas With Accessories
If your Ram Dakota has a bedliner, tonneau cover, or aftermarket bumper accessories, check clearance and bracket access before purchasing a tailgate assist. Some bedliners add thickness to the inner tailgate panel or hide factory fasteners that a kit expects to use. Similarly, a heavy aftermarket bumper or added bumper-mounted steps can change hinge geometry or how the tailgate rests at full open.
- Inspect inner tailgate panel access points and measure clearance behind the panel.
- Confirm the assist's bracket design does not conflict with a bedliner flange or tailgate-mounted wiring.
- Consider short trial fitting to ensure the assist can be mounted without trimming other accessories.
Installation Checklist and Typical Steps
While installation methods vary, most assist kits follow a similar sequence: support and secure the tailgate, remove or loosen the inner tailgate panel if required, attach mounting brackets to hinge or inner rail, install the damper or shock, and test the lowering action under controlled conditions. Use a helper or a support strap to prevent the tailgate from free-falling during the process.
Proper torque of mounting bolts and a final check of latch engagement are essential. After initial installation, cycle the tailgate several times with no load, then test with typical cargo to confirm damping behavior. Re-check fasteners after a short break-in period as components seat.
- Gather safety gear: eye protection, torque wrench, and support strap.
- Follow kit torque specs and replace any rusty fasteners.
- Cycle the tailgate 10 to 20 times and re-torque hardware after initial break-in.
Adjusting Damping for Different Loads
Some tailgate assists offer adjustable damping or different strength cartridges to accommodate light or heavy loads. If your kit is adjustable, start with the lowest damping setting and increase until the tailgate lowers at a controlled speed without slamming. If non-adjustable, choose a kit rated for the load range you expect most often.
Be aware that damping can change with temperature; thicker hydraulic fluid or colder weather may increase resistance. If you regularly switch between heavy and light cargo, favor systems with adjustable or multi-rate damping so you can tune performance for each use case.
- Adjust in small increments and test with a helper.
- Document the preferred setting for common load types to repeat later.
- Allow the unit to operate for a few cycles after adjustment to confirm stability.
Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid
A few common errors can compromise performance. Avoid relying on clamp-style brackets that slip under load, and do not over-tighten fasteners in thin sheet metal without proper backing or washers. Drilling holes without confirming alignment can lead to misaligned damping and premature wear.
Ensure the assist is positioned to move through its full stroke without contacting the bed or tailgate trim. Also verify that any retained factory weather seals are not pinched by new brackets, which could cause water intrusion or rust over time.
- Do not overtighten sheet-metal screws; use backing plates if required.
- Verify full stroke clearance before final torque.
- Avoid mounting points that change the tailgate's resting angle.
How We Chose the Best Ram Dakota Tailgate Assist
We evaluated candidates based on vehicle-specific fitment, mechanical reliability, and owner-facing practicality to identify tailgate assists suited to the Ram Dakota. Primary criteria included correct fit for Dakota tailgate geometry and mounting points, consistent damping performance across typical cargo weights, and construction materials that resist corrosion and wear in truck-bed conditions.Installation complexity and the need for special tools were factored in so owners can assess whether they can complete the job themselves or should plan for professional help. We also considered long-term serviceability including replaceable components and availability of common parts such as replacement shocks or bushings. Noise control during operation and reduction of striker/latch stress were additional technical filters.Exclusions: We excluded universal systems that require extensive tailgate modification or cutting, and any designs relying on proprietary fasteners that impede routine service. Only solutions that preserve factory latch function and maintain tailgate alignment were kept.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
Will installing a tailgate assist on my Dakotas void the tailgate warranty?
It depends on warranty terms. Simple bolt-on kits that use factory mounting points and do not alter the tailgate structure are less likely to void a warranty, while permanent modifications such as welding or cutting could. Check your vehicle warranty language or consult your dealer for specifics.
Can I install a tailgate assist by myself or do I need a mechanic?
Many owners can install a bolt-on assist with basic hand tools and a support strap for the tailgate. Kits requiring inner panel removal, drilling, or welding are best handled by someone with intermediate mechanical skills or a shop. Follow the kit instructions and stop if the procedure exceeds your comfort level.
How much maintenance do tailgate dampers require?
Maintenance is usually minimal: periodically check fastener torque, inspect seals and bushings for wear, and look for signs of corrosion or fluid leaks. Units with replaceable cartridges make servicing easier; otherwise, expect to replace the damper if performance degrades significantly.
Will a tailgate assist prevent the tailgate from closing all the way?
No. Properly designed assists only control the lowering motion and do not interfere with the latch closing. After installation, verify the tailgate engages the latch fully and adjust bracket position if alignment issues occur.
Are there adjustments for temperature-related performance changes?
Some systems are adjustable or offer cartridges tuned for different operating temperatures. For non-adjustable units, expect damping to change slightly in cold weather. If you frequently operate in extreme temperatures, choose a design specified to perform across that range.
What should I do if the tailgate still slams after installation?
First check that the assist is mounted correctly and that fasteners are torqued to spec. Confirm the damper is the correct strength for your typical load and that there is no binding or interference in the tailgate path. If issues persist, consult the kit documentation or seek professional help to verify fitment.
Final Verdict
For Ram Dakota owners, prioritize fitment and damping range when choosing a tailgate assist. A unit that mounts to factory points, resists corrosion, and offers appropriate damping for your usual cargo will deliver the best mix of safety and convenience. Consider ease of installation and future serviceability to avoid headaches down the road.Balance the need for stronger damping against the desire for smooth, user-friendly operation; if you carry a variety of loads, an adjustable or multi-rate solution provides the most flexibility. With careful selection and correct installation, a tailgate assist will reduce slam, protect hardware, and make single-person tailgate operation much easier.
