How are most climbing into the bed of the truck ? Can a step assist be added to a tailgate or do you have to replace the tailgate? any sources or info on this greatly appreciated.
My 2020 XLT 3.5 Sport seems to be very well equipped, in comparison to my brothers 19 Lariat , the cockpit seems to be Identical, the only thing he has that I want is the step assist, I don't see myself climbing into the bed without it.

 

The tailgate step that Ford offers cannot be added, you would need to buy / swap the entire tailgate.

 

Ha ha yeah I am old I need the step. I have climbed in a few times but regretted it especially getting out.

 

Nailed it, I can barley throw my leg over my bike, I now place my boot on the seat and slide into position.

 

Another option is to carry a small aluminum folding step ladder like I do. It also comes in handy when I check the engine oil. (Yes, I am a height challenged person.)

 

 

The AMP steps works great and stows away. Unlike the factory tailgate step this can be used with the tailgate up or down and even when a trailer is attached.

 

Here is a decent option that mounts and tucks against the inner tailgate.

 

Harbor Freight sells a few step stool/benches. Although I already had a couple aluminum work platforms, I bought HF’s cheapest smallest work platform and keep it in the truck. It is almost perfectly halfway in height to the tailgate. Makes a handy bench,too.
I also keep a broom handle with a bike hanger hook screwed into it to reach for items forward in the bed. And an old aluminum cane for similar uses and as a very sturdy push pole. This is all under a tonneau cover.

 

I have the AMP research version.
I bought mine used for 75 bucks.

D.