Dorman 38504 Tailgate Support Cable

Brand Dorman 38504
Material Steel
Diameter 0.236
Length 21.02
Universal Or Specific Fit Specific
Package Contents 1 cable
Fits Ford · 19 vehicles

OE-style fit. Matches the original cable's function on specific vehicles.

Steel construction. Built from quality materials for durable tailgate support.

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

Cross-references AP Exhaust 38504 and 3L3Z9943053AA for the same application. See all 2.

$36.46Free shipping
In stock · usually ships same day before 1pm CST
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Step 2 — Quantity
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Free returns within 60 days if it doesn't fit when fitment is verified.

Dorman 38504 Tailgate Support Cable

Dorman 38504 is a steel tailgate support cable built to match the fit and function of the original cable on specific Ford trucks. It helps keep the tailgate stabilized during use and is engineered for long-term durability on daily work vehicles.

Key Features

  • Steel construction for dependable tailgate support
  • Specific-fit replacement for direct application matching
  • Matches original fit and function on listed Ford models
  • Engineered for stable tailgate positioning over time
  • Fits 2001-2003 Ford F-150 and 2005-2012 Ford F-250 Super Duty / F-350 Super Duty applications

Detailed Description

This tailgate support cable is made for Ford truck owners who need a direct replacement for worn or damaged tailgate hardware. Dorman 38504 follows the original cable’s fit and function, with a steel build and a 0.236-inch diameter for consistent support. It is a specific-fit part for 2001-2003 Ford F-150 and 2005-2012 Ford F-250 Super Duty and F-350 Super Duty models, including one-side-only applications. This part cross-references AP Exhaust 38504 for the same application.

What It Helps Fix

  • Sagging or unsupported tailgate movement
  • Broken or frayed tailgate support cable
  • Loose tailgate positioning during loading and unloading
  • Wear-related instability in the tailgate support system

Installation Notes and Tips

Verify vehicle year, make, and model before ordering. This cable is listed for one-side-only applications, so confirm the side and existing hardware layout on your truck before installation. Match the original cable length of 21.02 inches and the specific-fit design to ensure proper alignment on Ford F-150, F-250 Super Duty, or F-350 Super Duty tailgate hardware.

Quality Assurance

Dorman manufactures replacement parts to match original equipment fit and function, using quality materials for dependable service life. Part number 38504 is built as a direct replacement for the listed Ford truck applications.

This part fits 19 vehicles
Always verify fitment with your vehicle's VIN if unsure. Submodel & trim restrictions may apply.
YearMakeModelBody TypeBed TypePositionNotes
2012FordF-250 Super DutyN/AIncludes One Side Only
2012FordF-350 Super DutyN/AIncludes One Side Only
2011FordF-250 Super DutyN/AIncludes One Side Only
2011FordF-350 Super DutyN/AIncludes One Side Only
2010FordF-250 Super DutyN/AIncludes One Side Only
2010FordF-350 Super DutyN/AIncludes One Side Only
2009FordF-250 Super DutyN/AIncludes One Side Only
2009FordF-350 Super DutyN/AIncludes One Side Only
2008FordF-250 Super DutyN/AIncludes One Side Only
2008FordF-350 Super DutyN/AIncludes One Side Only
2007FordF-250 Super DutyN/AIncludes One Side Only
2007FordF-350 Super DutyN/AIncludes One Side Only
2006FordF-250 Super DutyN/AIncludes One Side Only
2006FordF-350 Super DutyN/AIncludes One Side Only
2005FordF-250 Super DutyN/AIncludes One Side Only
2005FordF-350 Super DutyN/AIncludes One Side Only
2003FordF-150Crew Cab PickupStepsideN/AIncludes One Side Only
2002FordF-150Crew Cab PickupStepsideN/AIncludes One Side Only
2001FordF-150Crew Cab PickupStepsideN/AIncludes One Side Only
Directly replaces or cross-references 2 part numbers
Cross-reference numbers are provided for identification purposes only. Always confirm fitment before ordering.
AP Exhaust — 385043L3Z9943053AA