My 2022 XLT tailgate is extremely heavy. Ford replaced the torsion bar under warranty but didn't make a difference. I'm sure it would help if I were to remove the step that I don't use. My question is will the tailgate open all the way without the weight of the step? Also, where can I get a replacement trim piece to replace the one from the step?

 

Just deal with it. Believe it or not, tailgates without torsion bars existed for close to a century and people lived with it. I bet my 1987 F150's tailgate was heavier than the current one with all the crap in it.

It would be an extremely expensive proposition to replace the tailgate, and gutting it would leave you with other issues, because the top of the tailgate where the step is, is held in place by the mechanism. I think it would be cumbersome to rig that to stay in a fixed position.

 

...and yeah, that step weighs all of what...4 pounds? That "extra" weight is the least of your worries if you are struggling to raise the tailgate!

 

I’m sure your tailgate would operate just fine without the step, many trucks come without them. Another option is to post up on the forum to see if someone local(ish) with a similar-equipped truck, same color, might want to swap. Or, see if perhaps your dealer can source the single trim piece and remove the step as you suggested if that’s your desire. Good luck.

 

should have bought one w/ the ELECTRIC open & CLOSE!

 

Somebody needs to go to the gym more often.

 

You know nothing about me. Do you have anything positive to add to the thread?

 

I didn't say you. Geez.

 

Not sure if the non-step tailgate trim piece fits on tailgates with the step to cover the hole, but the trim piece itself isn't that expensive. I replaced the one on my 2018 because I gouged it up real good and it was all of about $45. I can't imagine the trim for a 2022 is much different in price.

 

I should trade him, I hate the electric open close but love the tailgate step. Electric open close is forced on Lariats. whatever the OP does I hope he knows how much those things are worth on ebay. There's a ton of owners that would pay a pretty penny for one not from a junk yard.