6 Best Tailgate Assist Struts For One Handed Operation

Loading heavy feed bags, cumbersome irrigation piping, or crates of harvested produce into the bed of a truck should not require a second person just to manage the tailgate. A simple, one-handed assist strut transforms the tailgate from a heavy, slamming liability into a controlled, effortless operation. Equipping a truck with this upgrade saves time and prevents unnecessary strain during the busy peak of the farming season.

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Dee Zee EZ Down: The Best Overall Tailgate Assist

The Dee Zee EZ Down stands as the gold standard for anyone who values consistent, reliable performance without overthinking the mechanics. It utilizes a custom-fit dampening system that allows the tailgate to descend slowly and steadily, regardless of how much weight is loaded in the bed. For the hobby farmer frequently juggling crates of eggs or heavy tools, this strut ensures the tailgate doesn’t come crashing down on a foot or gear.

Installation is straightforward, utilizing existing factory mounting points to ensure the truck remains in peak condition without drilling. The build quality is robust enough to handle the dusty, grit-filled environments typical of a small-scale farm. If the goal is a reliable, “set it and forget it” upgrade that integrates seamlessly with daily chores, the Dee Zee EZ Down is the definitive choice.

Rough Country Assist: Toughest for Heavy-Duty Use

When the truck bed is constantly tasked with hauling firewood, bags of grain, or heavy equipment, the tailgate hinge takes a beating. The Rough Country Assist is engineered with a thicker, more resilient strut body designed specifically to endure the rigors of heavy-duty use. It handles the extra mass of steel tailgates without showing signs of premature wear.

This option is the preferred choice for those whose trucks are workhorses rather than garage-kept cruisers. It maintains its dampening consistency even after thousands of cycles in varying temperature climates. If the farm operations involve heavy lifting and a high frequency of tailgate use, this strut provides the necessary durability to justify the investment.

Stabilus Lift-O-Mat: Quiet OEM-Level Performance

Many truck owners prefer the feeling of factory-original equipment, and the Stabilus Lift-O-Mat delivers exactly that. As a primary manufacturer for many vehicle brands, Stabilus produces struts that operate with a near-silent, fluid motion that feels completely integrated into the truck’s design. There is no jitter or “stickiness” during the opening process.

This is the ideal option for the farmer who appreciates precision engineering and wants to avoid the louder, more mechanical sound of cheaper aftermarket alternatives. It offers a premium feel that enhances the overall user experience every time the tailgate drops. Choosing this strut is an investment in refinement and quiet, consistent reliability.

Go Rhino ELEVATE: The Easiest Strut to Install

Time is the most valuable commodity on a small farm, and the Go Rhino ELEVATE is designed to be installed in under fifteen minutes. It removes the need for specialized tools, utilizing a clever mounting hardware kit that fits most popular truck models with minimal effort. This makes it the perfect choice for those who are not particularly interested in complex mechanical modifications.

Beyond the ease of installation, the ELEVATE series provides a clean, unobtrusive look once attached. It does not interfere with tonneau covers or bed liners, which is a common headache with bulkier kits. For the reader who wants the benefits of a one-handed tailgate assist without losing a Saturday afternoon to the installation process, this is the superior option.

Red Hound Auto Assist: Top Budget-Friendly Option

Not every farm upgrade needs to carry a premium price tag to be effective. The Red Hound Auto Assist provides the essential function of a controlled-descent tailgate at a fraction of the cost of high-end brands. It manages the weight of the tailgate effectively and prevents the jarring slam that leads to hinge damage over time.

While it may lack the polished finish or the heavy-duty housing of more expensive competitors, it performs the core task flawlessly. It is a practical choice for older farm trucks where the cost of premium accessories might outweigh the remaining life of the vehicle. If the budget is tight but the need for a functioning, one-handed tailgate is immediate, this unit serves the purpose well.

Tuff Country 89900: Solid, No-Frills Reliability

Tuff Country is synonymous with sturdy truck components, and their 89900 strut reflects a design philosophy centered on simplicity. It is essentially a high-quality gas strut that mounts easily and works exactly as advertised. There are no proprietary gimmicks or unnecessary parts, just a dependable mechanism that keeps the tailgate descent predictable.

This product is for the farmer who wants a work-grade tool that won’t fail when the workload increases. It provides a firm, consistent tension that holds up well against the vibration of driving over rocky pastures and uneven fields. Choosing Tuff Country is a decision to prioritize basic, unwavering mechanical strength over brand-name flash.

How to Pick the Right Strut for Your Truck Model

Not all tailgate struts are interchangeable, and attempting to force a universal fit often results in damaged mounts or a failed dampening effect. Always verify the specific make, model, and year of the truck before purchasing. Consider whether the truck has an aftermarket step, an added heavy-duty bed liner, or a specific towing package, as these additions change the load the strut must handle.

Consult the manufacturer’s fitment guide to ensure the bolt pattern matches existing holes, avoiding any unnecessary drilling. Remember that newer trucks often come with factory-installed assists; always check if the vehicle already has one before ordering a replacement. A quick search of the truck’s specific forum or owner’s manual can clarify if the tailgate hardware is compatible with standard aftermarket kits.

Installing Your Tailgate Assist: A Step-by-Step Guide

Proper installation is the key to longevity for any tailgate strut. Start by clearing the tailgate area and removing any debris from the hinge assembly. Use a torque wrench to ensure that all mounting bolts are tightened to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications, as loose bolts will vibrate and eventually strip the threads.

Ensure the strut is oriented correctly, as many designs have a specific “up” position to keep internal seals lubricated. Once installed, test the motion slowly by partially opening the tailgate to check for clearance issues. Listen for any clicking or grinding sounds, which are clear indicators that the alignment is off or the hardware is binding against the side of the truck bed.

Maintaining Your Strut for Long-Term Performance

Tailgate struts are sealed units, but they are not entirely maintenance-free. During seasonal cleaning, wipe down the exposed shaft of the strut with a clean, dry cloth to remove dust, grit, and agricultural chemical residue. If dirt is allowed to build up on the shaft, it will eventually work its way past the seal and cause the strut to leak gas or oil.

Avoid using harsh degreasers or lubricants on the shaft, as these can degrade the rubber seals and accelerate wear. Periodically check the mounting hardware for signs of corrosion, especially if the truck is used to haul salt or fertilizer, and touch up any exposed metal with rust-preventative paint. Simple, infrequent maintenance will extend the life of the strut by several years, ensuring consistent operation throughout the demanding harvest months.

Tailgate Safety and Common Questions

The most frequent concern regarding tailgate assists is whether they compromise the safety of the tailgate latch. In reality, an assist strut reduces the stress on the cables and hinges by preventing the violent slam that causes metal fatigue over time. Always ensure that the tailgate latches are fully engaged when closed; the strut does not replace the security of the factory latch system.

If the tailgate seems too heavy even with the assist, it may indicate that the strut is nearing the end of its service life or that the wrong weight class was selected during purchase. Do not attempt to refill or repair a leaking gas strut, as the high internal pressure poses a safety risk. When a strut begins to fail—usually identified by a loss of resistance or “stuttering” during descent—it should be replaced promptly to prevent damage to the tailgate alignment.

Equipping a truck with a high-quality tailgate assist is one of the most cost-effective ways to streamline daily farm tasks. By choosing the right tool for the job and performing basic maintenance, the tailgate becomes a reliable, one-handed asset rather than a source of frustration. Consistent, smooth operation is not just a luxury; it is a practical improvement that keeps the farm moving forward.