Dorman 38533 Tailgate Support Cable

Brand Dorman 38533
Diameter 0.249
Length 21
Material Metal
Package Contents 1 Cable
Universal Or Specific Fit Specific
Fits Ford · 33 vehicles

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

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

Cross-references Dorman - HELP 38533 and F65Z9943052A for the same application. See all 2.

$34.68Free shipping
In stock · usually ships same day before 1pm CST
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Free returns within 60 days if it doesn't fit when fitment is verified.

Dorman 38533 Tailgate Support Cable

Dorman 38533 is a specific-fit tailgate support cable for select Ford trucks. It matches the original cable’s fit and function, using durable metal construction to help keep the tailgate stable during everyday use.

Key Features

  • Specific-fit replacement for select Ford tailgate applications
  • Metal construction for dependable support and long service life
  • Matches original fit and function for straightforward replacement
  • Engineered for tailgate stabilization on the vehicle listed below
  • Cross-reference: Ford F65Z9943052A

Detailed Description

This tailgate support cable is built for direct replacement on compatible Ford F-150, F-250, F-250 Super Duty, F-350, F-350 Super Duty, and F-100 Ranger applications. The Dorman 38533 tailgate support cable is made to follow the original cable dimensions, including a 0.249-inch diameter and 21-inch length, so it aligns with the factory setup on the specified trucks. If you are replacing a worn Ford F-150 tailgate support cable or sourcing a Dorman 38533 replacement for a Ford F-250 tailgate support cable application, this part is built for the listed fitment.

Compatible With: 2003 Ford F-150, N/A, includes one side only; 1997-2002 Ford F-150, N/A; 1998-2002 Ford F-250, N/A; 1999-2002 Ford F-250 Super Duty, N/A; 1998-2002 Ford F-350, N/A; 1999-2002 Ford F-350 Super Duty, N/A; 1997-2001 Ford F-100 Ranger, N/A; 1997 Ford F-250, N/A, under 8,500 lb. GVW.

What It Helps Fix

  • Loose or sagging tailgate support on listed Ford trucks
  • Broken or worn tailgate cable hardware
  • Tailgate instability during loading and unloading
  • Factory cable replacement needs after wear or corrosion
  • Fitment issues from using the wrong cable length or diameter

Installation Notes and Tips

Verify the vehicle year, model, and tailgate configuration before ordering. This part is a specific-fit replacement, and the 2003 Ford F-150 application notes that it includes one side only. Compare the original cable length and mounting points to confirm proper alignment before installation.

Quality Assurance

Dorman builds this cable to match the original part’s fit and function for the listed vehicles. The metal construction is selected for durability in tailgate service, and the part is identified as Dorman HELP 38533 for catalog and service reference.

This part fits 33 vehicles
Always verify fitment with your vehicle's VIN if unsure. Submodel & trim restrictions may apply.
YearMakeModelBody TypeBed TypePositionNotes
2003FordF-150Extended Cab PickupFleetsideN/AIncludes One Side Only
2002FordF-150Standard Cab PickupStepsideN/A
2002FordF-150Extended Cab PickupStepsideN/A
2002FordF-250N/A
2002FordF-250 Super DutyN/A
2002FordF-350N/A
2002FordF-350 Super DutyN/A
2001FordF-100 RangerN/A
2001FordF-150Standard Cab PickupStepsideN/A
2001FordF-150Extended Cab PickupStepsideN/A
2001FordF-250N/A
2001FordF-250 Super DutyN/A
2001FordF-350N/A
2001FordF-350 Super DutyN/A
2000FordF-100 RangerN/A
2000FordF-150StepsideN/A
2000FordF-250N/A
2000FordF-250 Super DutyN/A
2000FordF-350N/A
2000FordF-350 Super DutyN/A
1999FordF-100 RangerN/A
1999FordF-150StepsideN/A
1999FordF-250N/A
1999FordF-250 Super DutyN/A
1999FordF-350N/A
1999FordF-350 Super DutyN/A
1998FordF-100 RangerN/A
1998FordF-150StepsideN/A
1998FordF-250N/A
1998FordF-350N/A
1997FordF-100 RangerN/A
1997FordF-150StepsideN/A
1997FordF-250N/AUnder 8,500 Lb. GVW
Directly replaces or cross-references 2 part numbers
Cross-reference numbers are provided for identification purposes only. Always confirm fitment before ordering.
Dorman - HELP — 38533F65Z9943052A