Truck Bed Step for 2008 Ford F150 Usable With Tailgate Open

Question:

I have a 08 Ford F150 and would like to gain access to the bed with the tail gate down using a RHS2. Can a 2, 12lg hitch extender be used in conjunction with the 2 step unit without sacrificing capacity and allow for use of both steps?

asked by: Joel B

Expert Reply:

Anytime a hitch extender of any kind is used, the tongue weight capacity of the hitch (the amount of downward force that can safely be applied to the hitch) is cut in half. The further away from the hitch a load is moved, the more leverage is applied to the hitch. If this distance and weight applied becomes large enough, the extender, hitch accessory and the hitch can be damaged.

In my opinion, the best step option for when the tailgate is down would be the Bestop TrekStep, part # B75302. The step permanently mounts to the vehicle, leaving the receiver hitch available for towing or hitch accessories. Leave the step in place until you need it, then flip it down into position with your foot. When the step's no longer needed, push it back up out of the way with your foot.

The # HE4045 from Heininger would also work with the tailgate open. It installs into the trailer hitch, so that won't be available for towing, but this choice is less expensive than the Bestop option I mentioned above.

expert reply by: Mike L