I am planning to buy a new F150 and trying to decide whether the tailgate ladder is worth the money. It seems more like a gimmick than a tool to me but I have had several cases where once I got used to a gimmick I decided that they are well worth the money. While I lean towards Fords I really think that Chevy has the better idea here with the steps in the ends of the bumper. I can replace the factory bumper with a Ranch Hand that includes steps in the ends for not much more than the ladder costs.

I'm 5 ft. so a step is almost necessary. I either have to have a step ladder, or the tail gate step. I consider it a necessity.

The Ford (optional) ladder is the easiest way to step into the truck bed, because it's in the center and has a grab handle in the right location. It works very well. The GM bumper cutouts also work and will probably be duplicated by others, but requires a bit more effort to use than the Ford. I imagine the justification depends on age and how often it will be needed. If I bought a new Ford I would want the step.

If I am just wanting something out of back and can't reach it I step on bumper and climb on over tailgate, but if unloading something like tiles etc I open tailgate put down step and rase grapbar to hang on to, I previously used a small stepladder i used but it collapsed under me ones sending me tumbling backwarts of prewies truck to hurt my back, so yes I like it very sturdy .Frank

I have the tailgate step on my 2014 F250 and it is terrific for getting in and out especially when carrying something. A very good option in my opinion.

Another option, may be a Debo Step. Here's a link to a video.. Truck brand doesn't matter.I've had one on my F250, going on seven years. It attaches to the hitch frame. You have a step with, or without the tailgate installed (good for truck campers), and it doesn't interfere with loading things in the truck bed. One draw back is, it collects dirt and gets a little rusty, which makes it a bit difficult to use. Keep it clean and lubricated.

How do you like your tailgate ladder? | Good Sam Community

handye9
Explorer II
Dec 10, 2015
Another option, may be a Debo Step. Here's a link to a video.. Truck brand doesn't matter.

I've had one on my F250, going on seven years. It attaches to the hitch frame. You have a step with, or without the tailgate installed (good for truck campers), and it doesn't interfere with loading things in the truck bed.

One draw back is, it collects dirt and gets a little rusty, which makes it a bit difficult to use. Keep it clean and lubricated.
Jack_Diane_Free
Explorer
Dec 10, 2015
I have the tailgate step on my 2014 F250 and it is terrific for getting in and out especially when carrying something. A very good option in my opinion.
Slownsy
Explorer
Dec 10, 2015
If I am just wanting something out of back and can't reach it I step on bumper and climb on over tailgate, but if unloading something like tiles etc I open tailgate put down step and rase grapbar to hang on to, I previously used a small stepladder i used but it collapsed under me ones sending me tumbling backwarts of prewies truck to hurt my back, so yes I like it very sturdy .
Frank
dshelley
Explorer
Dec 10, 2015
The Ford (optional) ladder is the easiest way to step into the truck bed, because it's in the center and has a grab handle in the right location. It works very well. The GM bumper cutouts also work and will probably be duplicated by others, but requires a bit more effort to use than the Ford. I imagine the justification depends on age and how often it will be needed. If I bought a new Ford I would want the step.
kennethwooster
Explorer
Dec 10, 2015
I'm 5 ft. so a step is almost necessary. I either have to have a step ladder, or the tail gate step. I consider it a necessity.

Forum Discussion

How do you like your tailgate ladder?

About Travel Trailer Group

Related Content

Tailgate Removal

Ladder

tailgater ladder mount

Tailgate

Ladder