I have a 19 XLT 302a that I was wondering if I could add the push button tailgate option to replace the old fashioned mechanical tailgate handle. Reason being is that all of my handles are PTM other than the tailgate handle which drives me nuts! I have tried locating a Race Red mechanical handle however they don't seem to exist, only the handle part that moves is painted while the surround is black. I thought about getting mine painted but I hear that the textured plastic used in for handle is not very receptive to paint even with proper prep.

ANYHOW..

Is there a way to add a push button release without having to frankenstein a bunch of stuff together? I can get a functioning handle for about $75 from eBay. I assume I would need the actuator and a wiring pigtail. Im not worried about not having having the button on my key fob. As long as it would work on the truck that's all that I need Anyone know if this would work?

 

In theory it should be possible. The tailgate release is controlled by the BCM so you would need the correct harness/harnesses to connect everything up to the BCM. Depending on your truck's current wiring, it might be necessary to add pins and wires to an existing BCM connector. Then you would have to activate the tailgate release circuits with FORScan. I'm thinking this would be rather involved and pricey to accomplish.

 

Thats what I'm thinking. I was hoping someone had attempted this mod and may have some input. I may take the access panel off of the tailgate and see what wiring is already there.

 

Following. Sounds like a great idea, as long as it's not too involved a process.

 

did you ever figure this out or have an update on this?

 

I haven't had any issues with paint adhesion. I sanded the texture off the handle and had a local body shop paint the handle on my my 2017 and 2020.

 

I’ll probably end up doing the same thing.. I got a great deal from the junk yard for a painted handle with button and the hitch light... was trying to see how much of a paint it was going to be to do it if I decided to do that instead.

 

What is this push button you speak of?

 

The fancy schmancy trucks don't have a handle that you pull on to open the tailgate, they have a button.
Like the dummy tailgate handle pictured below. It's called a tailgate handle, but there is no functioning handle.

 

Don't do it. The solenoids that actuate the push button tailgate can fail. Mine did. If you have a tonneau cover, you may have to cut it off to get to the tailgate mechanism.