How much weight can a Ford tailgate hold?
There isn’t a single universal figure for all Ford tailgates. In practice, built-in tailgate steps on Ford pickups are typically rated around 300–350 pounds (approximately 136–159 kilograms), while plain tailgates without a step do not have a widely published load rating. Always verify the exact specification for your year, model, and options.
Tailgate weight capacity by model and feature
Ford uses different tailgate configurations across its lineup. The figures below reflect common configurations, but exact numbers can vary by year and trim; always consult the owner's manual or Ford for your specific vehicle.
Ford F-150 and other F-Series trucks with a factory tailgate step
Most F-150s and related F-Series trucks equipped with the factory tailgate step or similar integrated assist feature carry a published load rating around 350 pounds (about 159 kilograms). This rating is intended for use when the tailgate is opened and the step is deployed for access, not for prolonged standing or climbing on the tailgate in other contexts.
Ford Ranger and smaller pickups with tailgate steps
Ranger and other compact pickups with a tailgate step typically fall in the same general range, about 300–350 pounds (136–159 kilograms), though exact figures can vary by year and option package. Always verify your specific configuration.
Plain tailgates without a built-in step
For tailgates without an integrated step or assist device, Ford does not publish a universal maximum load rating for standing on or loading onto the tailgate. Users should not rely on the tailgate surface to support a person or heavy weight beyond standard cargo handling; instead use designated steps or ramps as appropriate.
Conclusion: The most reliable numbers come from your exact vehicle’s documentation. If you are unsure, contact a Ford dealer or consult the owner’s manual for the precise rating of your model and year.
Quick reference: typical load ranges for Ford tailgate steps
The following ranges represent common configurations among Ford pickups. Exact figures can differ based on year and options, so use this as a general guide and verify official sources for your vehicle.
- F-150 and other F-Series trucks with factory tailgate step: up to about 350 pounds (159 kg).
- Ford Ranger and similar compact trucks with tailgate step: about 300–350 pounds (136–159 kg).
- Plain tailgates (no step): no published universal rating; treat as not intended for standing or heavy dynamic loading.
Always confirm the exact rating for your vehicle in the official documentation or with a Ford dealer.
How to verify the exact rating for your vehicle
To ensure you have the correct specification for your year and trim, use these steps to verify the tailgate load rating.
- Check the owner’s manual for the tailgate load rating or any cautionary guidance.
- Look for a label on the tailgate or inside the tailgate lid that states the maximum payload or load capacity.
- Consult Ford’s official website or your vehicle’s brochure for your exact model year and option package.
- Contact a Ford dealership or Ford customer service if you cannot locate a clear rating.
Having the precise rating helps ensure safe use of the tailgate and associated features, especially when using it as an access step or loading platform.
Safety considerations when using a tailgate as a loading surface
Safety matters when working with tailgates and loading tasks. General guidelines include staying within the published rating, using a proper step or ramp, maintaining three points of contact, wearing non-slip footwear, and avoiding dynamic loads (pushing or pulling heavy items) that could destabilize the tailgate. If a load is heavy or awkward, enlist help or use mechanical assist devices to prevent injury or tailgate damage.
Summary
In short, Ford tailgates do not have a single universal weight limit. Built-in tailgate steps on common Ford pickups are typically rated around 300–350 pounds, while plain tailgates without a step lack a published load rating and should not be relied upon for standing or heavy loads. Always verify the exact rating for your specific year, trim, and options in the owner’s manual or with a Ford dealer, and use appropriate steps or ramps for safe loading.
Can you stand on a truck tailgate?
Can you stand on a truck's tailgate? Most trucks have strong tailgates that can hold a human's weight. Many of them can withstand hundreds of pounds of weight.
How much weight can a Ford tailgate step hold?
Make sure the step is clean before use. Keep the step load, you plus the load, below 159 kg (350 lb).
How much weight will a tailgate support?
A truck's tailgate can hold between 300 to over 500 pounds, but the specific weight limit varies by make, model, and year. Some specialized tailgates, like the Ram Multi-Function Tailgate, are rated for up to 2,000 pounds, while others may have lower limits for specific uses like acting as a step, which can be around 375 pounds. Always check your truck's owner's manual for the exact rating and be cautious of dynamic loads, which can exceed the static weight limit and cause damage.
Tailgate weight capacity factors
- Static vs. dynamic loads: Most weight ratings refer to a static, evenly distributed load. Dynamic loads (e.g., someone jumping on the tailgate or a vibrating object) can put more stress on the tailgate and its support cables.
- Support mechanisms: The weight capacity is also determined by the cables or struts that hold the tailgate. Some manufacturers do not officially rate the cables, so the tailgate itself is the primary rating.
- Specific usage: Some tailgates have a lower weight limit for specific functions. For example, the Chevy Silverado's Multi-Flex Tailgate can hold up to 375 pounds when used as a step, but a higher capacity when functioning as a standard tailgate.
- Manufacturer ratings: Always check your truck's manual for the official weight limit. For example, a 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor has a maximum permissible tailgate load of 485 pounds.
- Specialty tailgates: Some trucks have specialty tailgates, such as the Ram 1500's Multi-Function Tailgate, which can hold up to 2,000 pounds when fully lowered.
How much weight can a liftgate handle?
A liftgate can handle a weight range from 1,000 lbs to over 6,000 lbs, with standard liftgates on common trucks often having a capacity of around 2,500 lbs. The specific weight capacity depends on the type of liftgate and the truck it is installed on; heavy-duty models can lift significantly more, while those on smaller vehicles like pickup trucks are designed for lower weights.
Typical weight capacities
- Standard liftgates: A common capacity for standard liftgates, especially those used by LTL carriers, is 2,500 lbs.
- Pickup truck liftgates: These are designed for lighter loads, typically ranging from 1,300 to 1,600 lbs.
- Heavy-duty liftgates: Larger, more specialized liftgates can handle much higher weights, such as:
- Column lift gates: Up to 6,600 lbs
- Tuck under lift gates: Up to 5,500 lbs
- Conventional and rail lift gates: 1,700–6,000 lbs
Factors influencing capacity
- Type of liftgate: The design and model determine the lift capacity. For example, a dual-cylinder design can often handle more weight than a single-cylinder model.
- Vehicle type: Liftgates on larger trucks, like box trucks, generally have higher weight ratings than those designed for pickup trucks.
- Manufacturer specifications: Always check the manufacturer's specifications for the specific liftgate model to confirm its exact weight capacity.
