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Dorman 38503 Tailgate Support Cable
| Brand | Dorman 38503 |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 0.249 |
| Length | 18.5 |
| Material | Metal |
| Package Contents | 1 Cable; Mounting Hardware |
| Universal Or Specific Fit | Specific |
| Fits | Ford · 29 vehicles |
OE direct replacement. Matches the fit and function of the original cable.
Durable metal construction. Built from quality materials for long-term stability.
Mounting hardware included. Ready for a straightforward installation.
Cross-references Dorman - HELP 38503 and 3L3Z8343052AA for the same application. See all 2.
Tailgate Support Cable for Ford Trucks
Dorman 38503 is a direct-fit tailgate support cable for specific Ford applications, built to match the original cable’s fit and function. It uses durable metal construction to help keep the tailgate stable during everyday use on Ford F-150 and Explorer Sport Trac models.
- Direct replacement tailgate support cable for specific vehicles
- Metal construction for long-term durability
- Matches original fit and function on listed Ford applications
- Includes mounting hardware for installation
- Specific-fit design for accurate replacement on the correct tailgate setup
Detailed Product Overview
This Dorman tailgate support cable, part number 38503, is engineered for Ford trucks and sport utility pickups that need a replacement for a worn or damaged tailgate cable. With a length of 18.5 inches and a 0.249-inch diameter, it is built to align with the original cable dimensions used on the listed vehicles. The metal construction supports stable tailgate operation over time, making it a practical OE-style replacement for Ford F-150, Ford F-150 Heritage, and Ford Explorer Sport Trac applications. This part cross-references Dorman - HELP 38503 and OE reference 3L3Z8343052AA for the same application.
What It Helps Fix
- Sagging or unsupported tailgate movement
- Broken, frayed, or stretched tailgate support cable
- Uneven tailgate positioning when lowered
- Loss of proper tailgate stability on Ford F-150 and Explorer Sport Trac models
- Noise or looseness caused by worn tailgate support hardware
Installation Notes and Tips
Verify vehicle fitment before installation. Compatible with 1997-2009 Ford F-150, 2004 Ford F-150 Heritage, 2001-2005 Ford Explorer Sport Trac, and 2007-2010 Ford Explorer Sport Trac. Confirm the existing cable length and mounting points match the original setup on your truck before replacing the part. Use the included mounting hardware during installation and inspect the opposite tailgate cable for wear if the tailgate has been carrying uneven load.
Quality Assurance
Dorman manufactures this replacement cable to match the fit and function of the original tailgate support cable on the specified Ford applications. The part is built from metal for durability and consistent tailgate support in regular service.
| Year | Make | Model | Body Type | Bed Type | Position | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | Ford | Explorer Sport Trac | — | — | N/A | — |
| 2009 | Ford | Explorer Sport Trac | — | — | N/A | — |
| 2009 | Ford | F-150 | — | Fleetside | N/A | — |
| 2008 | Ford | Explorer Sport Trac | — | — | N/A | — |
| 2008 | Ford | F-150 | — | Fleetside | N/A | — |
| 2007 | Ford | Explorer Sport Trac | — | — | N/A | — |
| 2007 | Ford | F-150 | — | Fleetside | N/A | — |
| 2006 | Ford | F-150 | — | Fleetside | N/A | — |
| 2005 | Ford | Explorer Sport Trac | — | — | N/A | — |
| 2005 | Ford | F-150 | — | Fleetside | N/A | — |
| 2004 | Ford | Explorer Sport Trac | — | — | N/A | — |
| 2004 | Ford | F-150 | — | Fleetside | N/A | — |
| 2004 | Ford | F-150 Heritage | — | Fleetside | N/A | — |
| 2003 | Ford | Explorer Sport Trac | — | — | N/A | — |
| 2003 | Ford | F-150 | Standard Cab Pickup | Fleetside | N/A | — |
| 2003 | Ford | F-150 | Extended Cab Pickup | Fleetside | N/A | — |
| 2003 | Ford | F-150 | Crew Cab Pickup | Fleetside | N/A | — |
| 2002 | Ford | Explorer Sport Trac | — | — | N/A | — |
| 2002 | Ford | F-150 | Standard Cab Pickup | Fleetside | N/A | — |
| 2002 | Ford | F-150 | Extended Cab Pickup | Fleetside | N/A | — |
| 2002 | Ford | F-150 | Crew Cab Pickup | Fleetside | N/A | — |
| 2001 | Ford | Explorer Sport Trac | — | — | N/A | — |
| 2001 | Ford | F-150 | Standard Cab Pickup | Fleetside | N/A | — |
| 2001 | Ford | F-150 | Extended Cab Pickup | Fleetside | N/A | — |
| 2001 | Ford | F-150 | Crew Cab Pickup | Fleetside | N/A | — |
| 2000 | Ford | F-150 | — | Fleetside | N/A | — |
| 1999 | Ford | F-150 | — | Fleetside | N/A | — |
| 1998 | Ford | F-150 | — | Fleetside | N/A | — |
| 1997 | Ford | F-150 | — | Fleetside | N/A | — |
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