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It might also keep the right hand side of the tailgate from trying to lift out, if you pulled on the handle toward the drivers side instead of directly backwards like normal (i.e. directly toward the camera in this pic).
It might also keep the right hand side of the tailgate from trying to lift out, if you pulled on the handle toward the drivers side instead of directly backwards like normal (i.e. directly toward the camera in this pic).
I think your right cause I have actually had my tailgate pop off the truck while opening it. If I hadn't of used my cat like reflexes, it would of dropped the Taligent right off!!!
They call it a "Truck Box Rear Floor Cross Member Bracket" (107B72). Not much help. The corresponding part (404A42C) was not found by the public online catalog (incorrectly ids it as 404A42B lock striker plate).
I have it. XLT with step. I've always wondered so thanks OP!
The only thought I had was a ground. An electrical ground. And now that I am typing this I realize I have the backup camera -- I wonder if they are related?
The trucks equipped with the tailgate step have that bracket. It is close to the side of the tailgate that lifts off. Because of the notch cut out of the circular piece, it is possible for it to flex/bend under load. The bracket you see helps take some of the load from the step.
On my new 2016, 5 days old, the piece on the tailgate rubbed on the "Truck Box Rear Floor Cross Member Bracket" (107B72) so much it squeaked when closing tailgate. Need I say, it has rubbed down to base metal - a point now to rust, and then dribble down on the bumper. What would be wrong to remove the "Truck Box Rear Floor Cross Member Bracket" (107B72) ? How much clearance is there with these on other owners vehicles?
I don't think Ford adds parts like this to the truck unless they are needed, so I wouldn't remove mine if it squeaked. I'd first try loosening the black bracket and see if I can get it to fit better. If that failed, I'd probably take a file or dremel to the slot to open it up some more, then some black paint to prevent rust.
Of course my old mechanic friend would say: "If it squeaks, LUBE IT!"
The corresponding part (404A42C) was not found by the public online catalog (incorrectly ids it as 404A42B lock striker plate).
