Dorman 38501 Tailgate Support Cable

Brand Dorman 38501
Diameter 0.241
Length 18
Material Metal
Package Contents 1 Cable
Universal Or Specific Fit Specific
Fits Ford and Mercury · 31 vehicles

OE direct replacement. Matches the fit and function of the original cable.

Durable metal construction. Engineered to stabilize the tailgate over the long haul.

Tailgate support cable. Helps hold the tailgate steady during use.

Cross-references Dorman - HELP 38501 and D20Z7143052A for the same application. See all 2.

$36.23Free shipping
In stock · usually ships same day before 1pm CST
Step 1 — Confirm fitment
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Select your vehicle to confirm fitment
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Step 2 — Quantity
Order total $36.23
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Free returns within 60 days if it doesn't fit when fitment is verified.

Tailgate Support Cable for Ford Bronco and Bronco II

Dorman 38501 is a direct-fit tailgate support cable built to match the original cable’s fit and function on select vehicles. Made from metal and engineered for specific applications, it helps keep the tailgate stable during everyday use on classic Ford and Mercury models.

Key Features

  • Specific-fit tailgate support cable for OE-style replacement
  • Metal construction for durable, long-term service
  • 18-inch length and 0.241-inch diameter
  • Matches the original cable’s fit and function on listed applications
  • Compatible with Ford Bronco, Ford Bronco II, and Mercury Montego applications

Detailed Description

This Dorman HELP tailgate support cable, part number 38501, is engineered for vehicles that use a specific-fit tailgate restraint cable. It is designed to stabilize the tailgate and maintain proper support over time, making it a practical replacement for worn or damaged original hardware. This part cross-references Dorman - HELP 38501 and D20Z7143052A for the same application. Common search terms for this part include tailgate support cable for 1978-1996 Ford Bronco, tailgate cable replacement for 1984-1990 Ford Bronco II, and OE-style tailgate support cable for 1972-1976 Mercury Montego.

What It Helps Solve

  • Loose or unstable tailgate support
  • Broken or stretched original tailgate cable
  • Tailgate sag during opening and closing
  • Reduced tailgate control on older body applications
  • Need for a direct replacement on specific-fit vehicles

Installation Notes and Tips

Verify vehicle fitment before installation. This cable is listed as a specific fit, so confirm the application against the vehicle year, make, and model before ordering. Inspect the tailgate mounting points and related hardware for wear or damage before installing the replacement cable. Fitment includes 1978-1996 Ford Bronco, 1984-1990 Ford Bronco II, and 1972-1976 Mercury Montego.

Quality Assurance

Dorman designs this replacement cable to match the original part’s fit and function on listed applications. The metal construction supports dependable service in tailgate applications where a stable, OE-style replacement is needed.

This part fits 31 vehicles
Always verify fitment with your vehicle's VIN if unsure. Submodel & trim restrictions may apply.
YearMakeModelPositionNotes
1996FordBroncoN/A
1995FordBroncoN/A
1994FordBroncoN/A
1993FordBroncoN/A
1992FordBroncoN/A
1991FordBroncoN/A
1990FordBroncoN/A
1990FordBronco IIN/A
1989FordBroncoN/A
1989FordBronco IIN/A
1988FordBroncoN/A
1988FordBronco IIN/A
1987FordBroncoN/A
1987FordBronco IIN/A
1986FordBroncoN/A
1986FordBronco IIN/A
1985FordBroncoN/A
1985FordBronco IIN/A
1984FordBroncoN/A
1984FordBronco IIN/A
1983FordBroncoN/A
1982FordBroncoN/A
1981FordBroncoN/A
1980FordBroncoN/A
1979FordBroncoN/A
1978FordBroncoN/A
1976MercuryMontegoN/A
1975MercuryMontegoN/A
1974MercuryMontegoN/A
1973MercuryMontegoN/A
1972MercuryMontegoN/A
Directly replaces or cross-references 2 part numbers
Cross-reference numbers are provided for identification purposes only. Always confirm fitment before ordering.
Dorman - HELP — 38501D20Z7143052A