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I thought most of these different tailgates were just companies trying to put do the next guy,. I didn't order the pro access tailgate, but I'm glad I've got it because it gets me closer into the bed of the truck without hanging to get in the bed....... for the most part. Not sure what the pro part is and also hoping it doesn't start having issues. For now......I like it.
Mine came on the Lariat I purchased as a company truck last week. At first I didn't care about it, but now that I have it I really like it. As mentioned, you get close to the bed without sliding things across the lift gate. As far as the granny step goes, the Pro access gate allows you to step up at the license plate recess, so I don't see a need for it. But then again, I'm 6'3"...may be different for someone not as tall.
When you get the pro access tailgate, it comes with the electric open and close function as well. So you really don't have to lift it! I did lift it once and closed it by hand and it wasn't bad. It feels substantial but not much worse than my 250 with just a plain tail gate.
After a few weeks with this thing, I'm Really Glad I ended up with this option. I was originally hoping to get the slide out step and was disappointed until I actually used it in everyday situations. It's hard to describe how incredibly convenient and flexible this thing is. I can't imagine anyone being disappointed.
After a few weeks with this thing, I'm Really Glad I ended up with this option. I was originally hoping to get the slide out step and was disappointed until I actually used it in everyday situations. It's hard to describe how incredibly convenient and flexible this thing is. I can't imagine anyone being disappointed.
Made multiple short stops to load and unload small items this morning. Quick access and shorter reach through the PAT is much nicer than reaching across an open tailgate. Sealing dust and rain out of a bed cap or under a tonneau is going to be challenging.
If I still often climbed in and out of the bed for work then a slide out step does make more sense. Maybe that new under bumper step with PAT is the best of both worlds. I don’t have the step.
2024 402a 3.5l
Last edited by Barry_Vee; Sep 7, 2024 at 02:50 PM.
Made multiple short stops to load and unload small items this morning. Quick access and shorter reach through the PAT is much nicer than reaching across an open tailgate. Sealing dust and rain out of a bed cap or under a tonneau is going to be challenging.
If I still often climbed in and out of the bed for work then a slide out step does make more sense. Maybe that new under bumper step with PAT is the best of both worlds. I don’t have the step.
2024 402a 3.5l
I bought the step from the online Ford Accessories store. But, DON'T DO THAT. I am going to install the step, but if you decide to get one, order it directly from the dealer. The online store took 3 weeks to deliver and it came without hardware and it's going to take forever to get those items from Ford, so I'm picking the bolts up myself at Home Depot.
So far, the hitch (or trailer itself) makes a great first step, if needed.
I bought the step from the online Ford Accessories store. But, DON'T DO THAT. I am going to install the step, but if you decide to get one, order it directly from the dealer. The online store took 3 weeks to deliver and it came without hardware and it's going to take forever to get those items from Ford, so I'm picking the bolts up myself at Home Depot.
So far, the hitch (or trailer itself) makes a great first step, if needed.
Good info and advice. I’ve been mulling over adding the step. Thanks
, and the other picture in this thread shows that with this tailgate, the trailer connections are moved over to the right hand side, so that you can open the door to the first indent and use the bumper as a step and not step on a trailer cord. I haven't picked mine up yet, but the dealer did send a picture, and it shows the trailer connector to be on the left. This is for a 2025 Lariat Powerboost.
Last edited by tsigwing; Jan 21, 2025 at 06:09 PM.
Did a bit more research, ie looking at 25's for sale and I believe that if you get the Black appearance package, you do not have the connector on the right side which is strange. When I pick up my truck tomorrow will try to look at a few different trucks to see what's up.
Pro Access Tailgate
