Dorman 38502 Tailgate Support Cable

Brand Dorman 38502
Length 23.5
Material Steel
Package Contents 1 Tailgate Cable; 1 Mounting Hardware Kit
Universal Or Specific Fit Specific
Fits Ford and Lincoln · 19 vehicles

OE-style replacement. Matches the fit and function of the original cable.

Steel construction. Built from quality materials for durable support.

Stabilizes the tailgate. Engineered to keep it steady over the long haul.

Cross-references Dorman - HELP 38502 and 4L3Z5443052AA for the same application. See all 2.

$34.45Free shipping
In stock · usually ships same day before 1pm CST
Step 1 — Confirm fitment
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Step 2 — Quantity
Order total $34.45
Free shipping to the continental U.S.
Free returns within 60 days if it doesn't fit when fitment is verified.

Dorman 38502 Tailgate Support Cable

Dorman 38502 is a specific-fit tailgate support cable for select Ford F-150 and Lincoln Mark LT applications. It matches the original cable’s fit and function, using steel construction to help keep the tailgate stabilized during regular use.

Key Features

  • Specific-fit replacement for select tailgate applications
  • Steel construction for durable support
  • 23.5-inch length
  • Matches original cable fit and function on listed vehicles
  • Includes mounting hardware kit

Vehicle Fitment

  • Fits 2004-2014 Ford F-150, N/A
  • Fits 2006-2008 Lincoln Mark LT, N/A
  • Fits 2010-2014 Lincoln Mark LT, N/A

Detailed Description

This tailgate support cable is built for direct replacement on the listed Ford and Lincoln trucks, including Ford F-150 models from 2004-2014 and Lincoln Mark LT models from 2006-2008 and 2010-2014. Dorman 38502 is engineered to replicate the original cable’s fit and function, making it a practical choice when the factory cable is worn, stretched, or damaged. The steel design supports long-term tailgate stability, and the 23.5-inch length aligns with the specified application. This part cross-references Ford OE number 4L3Z5443052AA for the same application.

What It Helps Solve

  • Tailgate sag caused by a worn support cable
  • Broken or frayed tailgate cable hardware
  • Loose tailgate positioning during opening and closing
  • Reduced stability on a Ford F-150 or Lincoln Mark LT tailgate

Installation Notes and Tips

Verify vehicle year and model before ordering. This is a specific-fit part for the listed applications, so confirm the tailgate cable length and mounting points match the original setup. Inspect the tailgate hinge area and related hardware for wear before installation to ensure proper operation after replacement.

Quality Assurance

Built by Dorman as a direct replacement part for select OE applications, this tailgate support cable is made from quality materials and engineered to match original fit and function on the listed vehicles.

This part fits 19 vehicles
Always verify fitment with your vehicle's VIN if unsure. Submodel & trim restrictions may apply.
YearMakeModelBed TypePositionNotes
2014FordF-150N/A
2014LincolnMark LTN/A
2013FordF-150N/A
2013LincolnMark LTN/A
2012FordF-150N/A
2012LincolnMark LTN/A
2011FordF-150FleetsideN/A
2011LincolnMark LTN/A
2010FordF-150FleetsideN/A
2010LincolnMark LTN/A
2009FordF-150StepsideN/A
2008FordF-150StepsideN/A
2008LincolnMark LTN/A
2007FordF-150StepsideN/A
2007LincolnMark LTN/A
2006FordF-150StepsideN/A
2006LincolnMark LTN/A
2005FordF-150StepsideN/A
2004FordF-150StepsideN/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 — 385024L3Z5443052AA