What Dee Zee Tailgate information Does
Dee Zee Tailgate information is a hydraulic system that lowers and raises your truck's tailgate with the push of a button instead of requiring you to lift it by hand. The system uses gas-charged cylinders mounted on both sides of the tailgate to control its movement smoothly. When you press the button, the cylinders extend to lower the gate, and pressing it again retracts them to raise it back up.
The main reason people install this system is to reduce strain on their back and shoulders when loading or unloading heavy items. A truck tailgate can weigh 50 to 100 pounds depending on the truck model, and lowering it repeatedly throughout the day adds up physically. The Dee Zee system also moves the gate more slowly and controllably than dropping it by hand, which can prevent damage to cargo or the gate itself.
This is an aftermarket product, meaning it is not built into your truck at the factory — you purchase and install it separately. Dee Zee is a manufacturer based in Des Moines, Iowa, that specializes in truck bed accessories and protective equipment.
Key Takeaways
- Dee Zee Tailgate information uses hydraulic cylinders to lower and raise your tailgate with a button instead of manual lifting.
- Installation requires drilling holes in your truck frame and tailgate, so professional installation is recommended unless you have welding and fabrication experience.
- The system costs between $400 and $800 depending on your truck model, plus installation labor which typically runs $200 to $500.
- You will need to maintain the hydraulic fluid and check the cylinders periodically, similar to maintaining other truck systems.
- Not all truck models are compatible — you need to verify that Dee Zee makes a kit for your specific year, make, and bed style.
How the Hydraulic Cylinders Work
The Dee Zee system relies on two gas-charged cylinders, one mounted on each side of the tailgate. These cylinders contain pressurized nitrogen gas and hydraulic fluid. When you press the lower button, a solenoid valve opens and allows hydraulic pressure to push the cylinder rod outward, which pulls the tailgate down. When you press the raise button, the valve reverses and the pressurized gas pushes the rod back in, raising the tailgate.
The cylinders are designed to move slowly enough that you can stop the tailgate at any position by releasing the button. This gives you control — you can lower it partway if you only need partial access, or all the way down if you are unloading a full bed. The gas charge inside the cylinders also acts as a shock absorber, preventing the tailgate from slamming down or up suddenly.
The system includes a control module and wiring harness that connect to your truck's electrical system. Power comes from your truck's battery, so the system will not work if your battery is dead or disconnected. Most Dee Zee kits include a manual override so you can still operate the tailgate if the electrical system fails.
Installation Requirements and Compatibility
Dee Zee makes tailgate information kits for many common truck models, but not all. Before purchasing, you need to confirm that a kit exists for your specific truck — the year, make, model, and bed style all matter. A kit for a 2020 Ford F-150 with a standard bed will not fit a 2020 F-150 with a crew cab and shorter bed. You can check Dee Zee's website or call a truck accessory retailer to verify compatibility.
Installation involves mounting the cylinders to the truck frame and tailgate using brackets, bolts, and in some cases welding. The control module mounts inside the cab, usually under the dashboard or in the door panel. Wiring runs from the module to the cylinders and to your truck's power source. If you are not comfortable with drilling, welding, or running electrical wiring, professional installation is the safer choice.
A professional truck shop or Dee Zee dealer can handle the installation and will have the right tools and experience to may support the cylinders are aligned correctly. Misalignment can cause the tailgate to bind or move unevenly, which stresses the cylinders and shortens their lifespan. Installation labor typically takes 4 to 8 hours depending on your truck's design.
Cost Breakdown: Parts and Labor
The Dee Zee Tailgate information kit itself costs between $400 and $800, depending on your truck model. Larger trucks or trucks with heavier tailgates tend to cost more because they require stronger cylinders. You can purchase the kit directly from Dee Zee, from truck accessory retailers like RealTruck or Amazon, or from a local truck shop.
Professional installation labor ranges from $200 to $500, again depending on how complex the installation is for your specific truck. Some trucks have frame designs that make mounting easier, while others require more fabrication work. A few truck shops include installation in the kit price, so it is worth asking before you buy.
You may also need to budget for maintenance supplies — hydraulic fluid top-ups and occasional cylinder inspection. These costs are minimal compared to the initial purchase, but they are part of owning the system long-term.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
The hydraulic cylinders contain fluid that can leak over time, especially if the seals wear out. You should check the fluid level periodically — your installation manual will show you where the reservoir is and how to check it. If you notice the tailgate moving slower than usual or not moving at all, low fluid is often the cause. Topping it off usually solves the problem.
The cylinders themselves are sealed units, so you cannot repair them yourself if they fail. If a cylinder leaks or stops working, you will need to replace it. Replacement cylinders cost $150 to $300 each, and installation takes an hour or two. This is still much cheaper than replacing the entire system.
The electrical components — the control module, wiring, and solenoid valves — rarely fail if installed correctly. If the system stops responding to button presses, check that your truck battery has power and that the wiring connections are clean and tight. Corrosion on battery terminals or loose connectors are the most common causes of electrical failure.
Alternatives to Dee Zee Tailgate information
Other manufacturers make similar tailgate information systems. Lomax, Undercover, and some truck bed cover companies offer hydraulic or electric tailgate systems. These work on the same principle as Dee Zee but may have different features, price points, or compatibility with your truck model. Comparing a few options before you buy can help you find the best fit for your needs and budget.
If you want to reduce the physical strain of lowering your tailgate but do not want to install a permanent system, you can also use a tailgate step or information strap. A tailgate step gives you a foothold so you can control the descent more easily. An information strap attaches to the tailgate and lets you guide it down using your arms instead of your back. These are much cheaper — usually $50 to $150 — but require more physical effort than a hydraulic system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Dee Zee Tailgate information work on my truck?
Dee Zee makes kits for many popular truck models, but not all. You need to check the year, make, model, and bed style of your truck against Dee Zee's compatibility list. A truck accessory retailer or Dee Zee's customer service can confirm whether a kit exists for your specific truck in under five minutes.
Can I install this myself if I have basic mechanical skills?
Installation requires drilling, bolting, and possibly welding — tasks that need precision to avoid damaging your truck frame or tailgate. If you do not have welding experience or the right tools, professional installation is safer and often worth the cost. Mistakes during installation can cause the cylinders to bind or fail prematurely.
What happens if the hydraulic system fails while my tailgate is down?
Most Dee Zee kits include a manual override that lets you raise the tailgate by hand even if the hydraulic system is not working. The override is usually a lever or cable inside the cab. You can still operate the tailgate, but you will need to use muscle power until the system is repaired.
How long do the hydraulic cylinders last?
With proper maintenance and normal use, the cylinders typically last 5 to 10 years. Lifespan depends on how often you use the system and whether you keep the hydraulic fluid topped off. Harsh weather, salt exposure, or heavy daily use can shorten the lifespan.
Can I use Dee Zee Tailgate information with a tonneau cover or bed cover?
Most tonneau covers are compatible with tailgate information systems, but you should check the cover manufacturer's specifications before buying. Some covers have mounting points that conflict with the cylinders, or they may not open smoothly with the assisted tailgate. Ask the cover retailer whether their product works with your specific tailgate information system.