The 30-second answer is below, followed by how this guide was researched, so you can check the shortlist before the detail.
The 30-second answer
Choose a damper kit if your tailgate slams down, and a seal strip if dust, water, or fumes enter through the tailgate gap under a cap or tonneau cover. They solve different problems: the Dee Zee DZ43204 is the top damper kit, the Dee Zee DZ43200 is the classic damper, the Dee Zee DZ43102 fits Chevy and GMC trucks, the ESI Ultimate Seal 10ft is the seal strip, and the ESI ROK Block XL covers a wide gap.
How we researched this guide
This guide compared 5 products: 3 Dee Zee damper kits and 2 ESI seal products, checked maker descriptions and fitment notes, and reviewed owner install reports.
Fitment is vehicle-specific for every kit and strip here. Check the listing fitment checker for your exact truck before ordering, and never assume one part number fits every truck.
Best Damper Kit
Dee Zee DZ43204 Tailgate Assist
Best if you want a controlled tailgate drop on a newer F-150. A single gas shock, no-drill install, and a maker warranty make it the straightforward damper pick.
Best Classic Damper
Dee Zee DZ43200 Tailgate Assist
Best if you have an older F-150 from the range this kit was made for. The same single-shock, no-drill idea as the top pick, for an earlier truck generation.
Best for Chevy and GMC
Dee Zee DZ43102 Tailgate Assist
Best if you drive a Chevy or GMC truck from the listed range and want the same controlled drop. Fitment is specific, so check your truck first.
Best Seal Strip
ESI Ultimate Tailgate Seal with Taper Seal 10ft
Best if dust, water, or fumes enter through the tailgate gap under a cap or tonneau cover. It seals the bottom and sidewalls with adhesive EPDM rubber.
Best Gap Cover Combo
ESI ROK Block XL Tailgate Gap Cover Combo
Best if you carry loose material under a cover and want a wide gap cover plus sidewall seals. It covers the bottom gap that a narrow strip can miss.
| Product | Type | Job | Install | Warranty | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dee Zee DZ43204 | Damper kit | Controls drop | No-drill | 3-year limited | |
| Dee Zee DZ43200 | Damper kit | Controls drop | No-drill | 3-year limited | |
| Dee Zee DZ43102 | Damper kit | Controls drop | No-drill | Not published | |
| ESI Ultimate Seal 10ft | Seal strip | Seals gap | Adhesive | Not published | |
| ESI ROK Block XL | Gap cover combo | Seals wide gap | Adhesive | Not published |
Tailgate product finder
Enter the weight in pounds or kilograms of the load you most often lift over the tailgate, and choose lb or kg. The finder recommends a product from this article only. A seal strip seals a gap and does not help a lifted load, so lifted-load inputs always return a damper kit.
Enter a value and press Enter or Find my pick.
How to choose between a kit and a strip
What problem are you solving
A damper kit controls the tailgate drop with a gas shock. A seal strip closes the gap around the tailgate. If the tailgate slams, you need a kit. If dust enters under a cover, you need a strip. Many owners need both, for different reasons.
Fitment first, always
Dee Zee kits are made for specific trucks, and ESI strips have vehicle-specific versions for trucks with special tailgates. Enter your truck details on the listing before ordering, and read the exclusions for multi-function and special tailgates.
Install effort
Most damper kits are a no-drill install with included hardware and a single shock on one side. Seal strips use adhesive tape and need a clean surface and a suitable temperature range, plus firm pressure to bond.
What it does not do
A damper kit does not seal the bed, and a seal strip does not slow the tailgate. Buying the wrong one for your problem will not fix it, even if the product itself works well.
Cover and cap use
Seal strips matter most when a truck cap or tonneau cover is fitted, because the cover makes the tailgate gap the main entry point for dust and water. Without a cover, a strip has less work to do.
Long-term care
Check damper operation over time and keep the strip adhesive clean and dry at install. Replace a worn shock or a peeling strip rather than living with a half-working fix.
Tailgate kits and strips by budget
| Tier | What you get | Example pick |
|---|---|---|
| Seal only | Adhesive seal for dust and water under a cover | ESI Ultimate Tailgate Seal 10ft |
| Damper only | Single gas shock kit for a controlled drop | Dee Zee DZ43200 or DZ43102 |
| Both jobs | Damper kit plus a gap cover and sidewall seal | Dee Zee kit plus ESI ROK Block XL combo |
Types of tailgate products
| Type | Strengths | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Damper kit | Gas shock that slows the tailgate drop | Trucks whose tailgate slams down |
| Tailgate seal strip | Adhesive EPDM rubber strip for the gap | Trucks with a cap or tonneau cover |
| Gap cover combo | Wide gap cover plus sidewall seals | Trucks carrying loose material under a cover |
| OEM-style damper | Factory-style damper for a specific truck | Owners who want a factory look |
Detailed reviews
The picks below are split into damper kits, which control the drop, and seal strips, which close the gap. Read the type first, then the fitment, because a good product for the wrong truck is still the wrong purchase.
Best Damper Kit: Dee Zee DZ43204 Tailgate Assist
Best Damper Kit — Best damper kit for newer F-150 trucks
Why the Dee Zee DZ43204 is our pick
The DZ43204 is the top damper pick because it does one job well: it slows the tailgate drop with a single dampened gas shock that works with the factory cables. All mounting hardware is included, and the install is described as no-drill for the trucks it fits.
Dee Zee DZ43204 key specs
- Type: tailgate damper kit
- Part number: DZ43204
- Function: controlled tailgate opening
- Material: compressed gas shock
- Install: no-drill, all hardware included
- Side: driver side, per maker instructions
- Quantity: one unit per truck
- Works with: factory cables
- Warranty: 3-year limited maker warranty
- Fitment: vehicle-specific, check listing
Dee Zee DZ43204: fits and best for
Best for the Ford F-150 trucks listed for this part number. Confirm fitment for your exact truck on the listing before ordering, including any special tailgate design.
Dee Zee DZ43204 pros and watch-outs
- Controlled, gentle tailgate drop
- No-drill install with hardware included
- Works with factory cables
- Single shock, simple design
- 3-year limited maker warranty
- Vehicle-specific, not universal
- Only addresses the drop, not sealing
- Driver-side mounting only, per instructions
- Does not fit every tailgate design
Dee Zee DZ43204: what owners report
- Install reports describe a smooth, soft stop after fitting, with a short install time, per a Dee Zee install report.
- Owners note that the damper mounts on the driver side only, which matters when planning the install, per the same install report.
- Some owners report noise or fitment questions that maker support resolved with a replacement, which underlines checking the part number first.
- Owner-coverage note: published owner discussion for this exact model is thin, so the points above draw on owner reports for this model and its tailgate product class where a model-specific report was not available.
Dee Zee DZ43204: who should not buy
If your problem is dust entering the bed rather than a slamming tailgate, this kit will not help. Choose an ESI seal from this guide instead, or fit both if you have both problems.
Dee Zee DZ43204: pair it with
Pair it with an ESI tailgate seal if you also run a cap or tonneau cover and want the bed sealed as well as the drop controlled.
How the Dee Zee DZ43204 compares with the other picks here
Against the other picks in this guide, the Dee Zee DZ43204 stands out as best damper kit with Damper kit on the first comparison measure and Controls drop on the second. That profile suits buyers who prioritise best damper kit for newer f-150 trucks over the strengths of the other picks, such as a different size, capacity, or mounting style. If the comparison table shows another pick closer to your needs on those measures, choose that pick instead, since the best pick is the one that matches your vehicle, space, and use, not the one with the highest headline figure.
Dee Zee DZ43204: delivery check and upkeep
When the Dee Zee DZ43204 arrives, check the part number against the listing, confirm all listed components are present, and inspect for transit damage before first use. Keep the packaging and instructions until the product has been fitted and used once, so a wrong-size or damaged item can be returned without delay. For upkeep, clean the product after dusty or wet use, store it dry, and re-check fasteners, straps, or seals at regular intervals, since vibration, weather, and repeated use loosen and wear even well-made products.
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Enter your truck details on the listing fitment checker before ordering, and do not order by truck name alone.
Best Classic Damper: Dee Zee DZ43200 Tailgate Assist
Best Classic Damper — Best damper for older F-150 trucks
Why the Dee Zee DZ43200 is our pick
The DZ43200 covers earlier F-150 trucks that the newer kit does not, which makes it the right damper pick for owners of those trucks. It uses the same single gas shock approach and works with the factory cables.
Dee Zee DZ43200 key specs
- Type: tailgate damper kit
- Part number: DZ43200
- Function: controlled tailgate opening
- Material: compressed gas shock
- Install: no-drill, all hardware included
- Side: driver side, per maker instructions
- Quantity: one unit per truck
- Works with: factory cables
- Warranty: 3-year limited maker warranty
- Fitment: vehicle-specific, check listing
Dee Zee DZ43200: fits and best for
Best for the earlier F-150 trucks listed for this part number. Check the listing for the exact range and for exclusions such as flareside models.
Dee Zee DZ43200 pros and watch-outs
- Controlled tailgate drop
- No-drill install
- Hardware included
- Works with factory cables
- 3-year limited maker warranty
- Vehicle-specific, not universal
- Older fitment range only
- Does not seal the bed
- Driver-side mounting only
Dee Zee DZ43200: what owners report
- Guides list this kit as the recommended retrofit damper for its truck range, per a tailgate damper guide.
- Owners describe the install as straightforward with no drilling, which is a recurring theme for Dee Zee kits.
- Some listings note this part as discontinued by the maker, so check availability and the exact part number before ordering.
- Owner-coverage note: published owner discussion for this exact model is thin, so the points above draw on owner reports for this model and its tailgate product class where a model-specific report was not available.
Dee Zee DZ43200: who should not buy
If your truck is outside this kit’s listed range, do not buy it hoping it will fit. Use the fitment checker to find the correct Dee Zee part number for your truck.
Dee Zee DZ43200: pair it with
Pair it with an ESI seal if you also need dust and water kept out under a cover.
How the Dee Zee DZ43200 compares with the other picks here
Against the other picks in this guide, the Dee Zee DZ43200 stands out as best classic damper with Damper kit on the first comparison measure and Controls drop on the second. That profile suits buyers who prioritise best damper for older f-150 trucks over the strengths of the other picks, such as a different size, capacity, or mounting style. If the comparison table shows another pick closer to your needs on those measures, choose that pick instead, since the best pick is the one that matches your vehicle, space, and use, not the one with the highest headline figure.
Dee Zee DZ43200: delivery check and upkeep
When the Dee Zee DZ43200 arrives, check the part number against the listing, confirm all listed components are present, and inspect for transit damage before first use. Keep the packaging and instructions until the product has been fitted and used once, so a wrong-size or damaged item can be returned without delay. For upkeep, clean the product after dusty or wet use, store it dry, and re-check fasteners, straps, or seals at regular intervals, since vibration, weather, and repeated use loosen and wear even well-made products.
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If the listing shows limited availability, confirm the part number with the seller before ordering, since superseded parts can cause confusion.
Best for Chevy and GMC: Dee Zee DZ43102 Tailgate Assist
Best for Chevy and GMC — Best damper for Chevy and GMC trucks
Why the Dee Zee DZ43102 is our pick
The DZ43102 brings the Dee Zee damper idea to Chevy and GMC trucks. It is a single-shock kit with included hardware, and it is the right pick when the truck matches its listed range.
Dee Zee DZ43102 key specs
- Type: tailgate damper kit
- Part number: DZ43102
- Function: controlled tailgate opening
- Material: metal gas shock
- Install: no-drill, hardware included
- Quantity: one unit per truck
- Works with: factory cables
- Warranty: Not published
- Fitment: vehicle-specific, check listing
- Side: per maker instructions
Dee Zee DZ43102: fits and best for
Best for the Chevy and GMC trucks listed for this part number, including half-ton and heavy-duty models in the listed range. Confirm your exact truck before ordering.
Dee Zee DZ43102 pros and watch-outs
- Controlled tailgate drop
- No-drill install
- Hardware included
- Works with factory cables
- Made for Chevy and GMC fitment
- Vehicle-specific, not universal
- Does not seal the bed
- Warranty details are not published in the listing
- Only one shock per truck
Dee Zee DZ43102: what owners report
- Damper guides list Dee Zee kits by truck brand and range, which is how this part number should be chosen, per a tailgate damper guide.
- Owners of Dee Zee kits generally report a gentler tailgate drop after install.
- Some owners note that choosing the wrong part number is the main cause of fitment problems, so the checker matters more than the brand.
- Owner-coverage note: published owner discussion for this exact model is thin, so the points above draw on owner reports for this model and its tailgate product class where a model-specific report was not available.
Dee Zee DZ43102: who should not buy
If you drive a Ford, Ram, or another brand, this kit is not for you. Find the Dee Zee part number made for your truck instead.
Dee Zee DZ43102: pair it with
Pair it with an ESI seal if you run a cap or tonneau cover and also want the gap sealed.
How the Dee Zee DZ43102 compares with the other picks here
Against the other picks in this guide, the Dee Zee DZ43102 stands out as best for chevy and gmc with Damper kit on the first comparison measure and Controls drop on the second. That profile suits buyers who prioritise best damper for chevy and gmc trucks over the strengths of the other picks, such as a different size, capacity, or mounting style. If the comparison table shows another pick closer to your needs on those measures, choose that pick instead, since the best pick is the one that matches your vehicle, space, and use, not the one with the highest headline figure.
Dee Zee DZ43102: delivery check and upkeep
When the Dee Zee DZ43102 arrives, check the part number against the listing, confirm all listed components are present, and inspect for transit damage before first use. Keep the packaging and instructions until the product has been fitted and used once, so a wrong-size or damaged item can be returned without delay. For upkeep, clean the product after dusty or wet use, store it dry, and re-check fasteners, straps, or seals at regular intervals, since vibration, weather, and repeated use loosen and wear even well-made products.
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Take a photo of your tailgate hinge and cable setup before ordering, and compare it with the listing images if anything looks unusual.
Best Seal Strip: ESI Ultimate Tailgate Seal with Taper Seal 10ft
Best Seal Strip — Best seal strip for most pickups
Why the ESI Ultimate Seal 10ft is our pick
The ESI Ultimate Tailgate Seal is the top seal pick because it is made for the exact job damper kits cannot do: closing the tailgate gap. It installs to the bottom and sidewalls, uses automotive-grade EPDM rubber with adhesive tape, and is made in the USA.
ESI Ultimate Seal 10ft key specs
- Type: tailgate seal strip
- Part number: UTGS10
- Length: 10 feet
- Material: automotive-grade EPDM rubber
- Adhesive: 3M ST1200 tape
- Install: adhesive, no drilling
- Fits: most pickups, with vehicle-specific exceptions
- Use with: truck caps and tonneau covers
- Made in: USA
- Apply at: 55 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit
ESI Ultimate Seal 10ft: fits and best for
Best for most pickups with a cap or tonneau cover, except trucks with special tailgates that need a vehicle-specific ESI kit. Check the exclusion list on the listing before ordering.
ESI Ultimate Seal 10ft pros and watch-outs
- Seals dust, water, and fumes at the gap
- Adhesive install, no drilling
- Fits most pickups
- Automotive-grade EPDM rubber
- Made in the USA
- Does not slow the tailgate drop
- Needs correct temperature and a clean surface
- Vehicle-specific exceptions apply
- Adhesive bond needs firm pressure
ESI Ultimate Seal 10ft: what owners report
- Owners using caps and tonneau covers report the tailgate gap as the main dust entry point, which is exactly what this seal targets, per a truck accessory guide.
- Install reports stress surface preparation and temperature, since a cold or dirty surface weakens the adhesive bond.
- Some owners note that sidewall pieces need care on trucks with unusual tailgate shapes, so the vehicle-specific kits exist for a reason.
- Owner-coverage note: published owner discussion for this exact model is thin, so the points above draw on owner reports for this model and its tailgate product class where a model-specific report was not available.
ESI Ultimate Seal 10ft: who should not buy
If your tailgate slams down, this seal will not fix it. Buy a Dee Zee damper kit from this guide for that problem, or fit both if you have both problems.
ESI Ultimate Seal 10ft: pair it with
Pair it with a Dee Zee damper kit if you also want a controlled drop, since the two products solve different problems.
How the ESI Ultimate Seal 10ft compares with the other picks here
Against the other picks in this guide, the ESI Ultimate Seal 10ft stands out as best seal strip with Seal strip on the first comparison measure and Seals gap on the second. That profile suits buyers who prioritise best seal strip for most pickups over the strengths of the other picks, such as a different size, capacity, or mounting style. If the comparison table shows another pick closer to your needs on those measures, choose that pick instead, since the best pick is the one that matches your vehicle, space, and use, not the one with the highest headline figure.
ESI Ultimate Seal 10ft: delivery check and upkeep
When the ESI Ultimate Seal 10ft arrives, check the part number against the listing, confirm all listed components are present, and inspect for transit damage before first use. Keep the packaging and instructions until the product has been fitted and used once, so a wrong-size or damaged item can be returned without delay. For upkeep, clean the product after dusty or wet use, store it dry, and re-check fasteners, straps, or seals at regular intervals, since vibration, weather, and repeated use loosen and wear even well-made products.
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Clean the surface, apply in the maker temperature range, and press firmly along the full length for a lasting bond.
Best Gap Cover Combo: ESI ROK Block XL Tailgate Gap Cover Combo
Best Gap Cover Combo — Best combo for loose loads under a cover
Why the ESI ROK Block XL is our pick
The ROK Block XL combo is for trucks where a narrow seal is not enough: it adds a wide gap cover over the bottom tailgate gap plus sidewall seals. That combination suits owners who carry loose material and still want the bed sealed under a cover.
ESI ROK Block XL key specs
- Type: gap cover plus sidewall seal combo
- Width: 7 inches for the gap cover
- Material: EPDM rubber with adhesive tape
- Install: adhesive, no drilling
- Use with: truck caps and tonneau covers
- Fits: most trucks, with listed exclusions
- Made in: USA
- Apply at: 50 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit
- Includes: gap cover and sidewall seals
- Bonding: requires firm pressure
ESI ROK Block XL: fits and best for
Best for trucks with a cap or tonneau cover that also carry loose material, except the excluded trucks listed for this combo. Check exclusions before ordering.
ESI ROK Block XL pros and watch-outs
- Covers the wide bottom gap
- Includes sidewall seals
- Suits loose-load use under a cover
- Adhesive install, no drilling
- Made in the USA
- More parts to fit than a single strip
- Listed exclusions for special tailgates
- Needs correct temperature and pressure
- Does not slow the tailgate drop
ESI ROK Block XL: what owners report
- Owners who haul loose material under a cover describe the bottom gap as the weak point, which this combo is made to cover, per a truck accessory guide.
- Install reports note that the wide cover needs careful alignment before the adhesive sets.
- Some owners report that checking the exclusion list first avoids the most common fitment disappointment.
- Owner-coverage note: published owner discussion for this exact model is thin, so the points above draw on owner reports for this model and its tailgate product class where a model-specific report was not available.
ESI ROK Block XL: who should not buy
If you only need a simple seal and never carry loose material, the single ESI seal strip is simpler and cheaper. Do not buy the combo for a slamming tailgate, since it does not control the drop.
ESI ROK Block XL: pair it with
Pair it with a Dee Zee damper kit if you also want a gentle tailgate drop alongside the sealed bed.
How the ESI ROK Block XL compares with the other picks here
Against the other picks in this guide, the ESI ROK Block XL stands out as best gap cover combo with Gap cover combo on the first comparison measure and Seals wide gap on the second. That profile suits buyers who prioritise best combo for loose loads under a cover over the strengths of the other picks, such as a different size, capacity, or mounting style. If the comparison table shows another pick closer to your needs on those measures, choose that pick instead, since the best pick is the one that matches your vehicle, space, and use, not the one with the highest headline figure.
ESI ROK Block XL: delivery check and upkeep
When the ESI ROK Block XL arrives, check the part number against the listing, confirm all listed components are present, and inspect for transit damage before first use. Keep the packaging and instructions until the product has been fitted and used once, so a wrong-size or damaged item can be returned without delay. For upkeep, clean the product after dusty or wet use, store it dry, and re-check fasteners, straps, or seals at regular intervals, since vibration, weather, and repeated use loosen and wear even well-made products.
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Dry-fit the wide cover before removing any adhesive backing, so the alignment is right on the first attempt.
Spec comparison
| Attribute | Dee Zee DZ43204 | Dee Zee DZ43200 | Dee Zee DZ43102 | ESI Ultimate Seal 10ft | ESI ROK Block XL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Product type | Damper kit | Damper kit | Damper kit | Seal strip | Gap cover combo |
| Job | Controls tailgate drop | Controls tailgate drop | Controls tailgate drop | Seals the tailgate gap | Seals a wide bottom gap |
| Install | No-drill, hardware included | No-drill, hardware included | No-drill, hardware included | Adhesive, no drilling | Adhesive, no drilling |
| Drilling required | No | No | No | No | No |
| Works with factory cables | Yes | Yes | Yes | Not applicable | Not applicable |
| Material | Not published | Not published | Not published | Automotive-grade EPDM rubber | Not published |
| Made in the USA | Not published | Not published | Not published | Yes | Yes |
| Contents | Single damper kit | Single damper kit | Single damper kit | 10 ft seal with taper seal | Gap cover plus sidewall seals |
| Best for | Controlled drop, general use | Controlled drop, classic fit | Chevy and GMC trucks | Most pickups under a cap or cover | Wide-gap beds under a cover |
| Warranty | 3-year limited | 3-year limited | Not published | Not published | Not published |
| Check Price |
Editorial judgement, not test results: the comparison above ranks published specifications and owner-report themes, not measured performance.
Installation and use basics
For a damper kit, follow the maker instructions for your truck, work on one side only where the instructions say so, and keep the factory cables in place. For a seal strip, clean the surface, apply only in the maker temperature range, press firmly along the full length, and allow the adhesive to bond before loading the bed. Check fitment twice: once before ordering and once before removing any backing or hardware.
Related reading on this site: Tailgate Assist Kits category, Truck Accessories category, best ATV winch guide, snatch block guide, tree saver strap guide, D-ring shackles guide, truck bed covers guide, Tacoma bed cover guide, truck bed swing case guide, truck bed liners guide, truck bed cap guide, safety chains guide, LED tail light guide.
Safety essentials
Never stand under a falling tailgate, and keep hands clear of hinges and cables during install. Work on level ground with the truck parked and secured. Follow the maker instructions for your exact truck, and do not modify a kit to fit a truck it was not made for. If a damper or strip does not fit, stop and check the part number rather than forcing it.
Dee Zee DZ43204 Tailgate Assist. Mount on the correct side only, keep hands clear of the hinge, and check the damper action before regular use.
Dee Zee DZ43200 Tailgate Assist. Check that the shock is secure and the tailgate lowers gently before loading the bed.
Dee Zee DZ43102 Tailgate Assist. Use the correct side and mounts from the instructions, and test the drop with an empty tailgate first.
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Likely cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Tailgate still slams | Wrong kit, worn shock, or incorrect install | Confirm part number and reinstall per maker instructions |
| Strip peels off | Dirty surface or cold install | Clean, reapply in the maker temperature range, press firmly |
| Dust still enters | Gap not fully covered or cover seal incomplete | Add sidewall seals and check the full gap |
| Damper binds or catches | Mount alignment or wrong side | Check the instructions for the correct side and mount |
| Tailgate will not stay open | Damper or cable issue | Inspect cables and damper, and do not prop the tailgate unsafely |
Before you order: final checklist
Before ordering any pick in this guide, confirm five things: the size or capacity fits your vehicle and use, the fitment or mounting suits your setup, the included components match what you need, the warranty and return terms are acceptable, and you have the tools or mounts needed for install. Measure twice, check the listing fitment or dimensions, and compare the pick against the comparison table one last time. A careful check now avoids the most common buyer regret, which is ordering a good product for the wrong vehicle, size, or job.
Maintenance and storage
Store products from this guide clean and dry, away from direct sun and chemicals where possible, and inspect them before each use. For mechanical products, check moving parts, locks, and fasteners; for fabric and rubber products, check for tears, fading, and adhesive failure; for electrical products, check wiring, connectors, and seals. Replace worn or damaged items rather than continuing to use them, since a worn tool, stand, cover, or anchor can fail at the worst moment. Keep instructions and part numbers with the product, so replacements and warranty claims are straightforward.
Who should NOT buy these
Do not buy a damper kit expecting it to seal dust out of the bed, and do not buy a seal strip expecting it to slow a heavy tailgate. Do not buy a kit for a truck with a special tailgate design unless the listing confirms fitment for that design. If your tailgate already has a factory damper, a second aftermarket kit may not be needed at all.
Final verdict
Best Damper Kit: Dee Zee DZ43204 Tailgate Assist —
Best Classic Damper: Dee Zee DZ43200 Tailgate Assist —
Best for Chevy and GMC: Dee Zee DZ43102 Tailgate Assist —
Best Seal Strip: ESI Ultimate Tailgate Seal with Taper Seal 10ft —
Best Gap Cover Combo: ESI ROK Block XL Tailgate Gap Cover Combo —
FAQ
What is a tailgate assist kit?
A tailgate assist kit is a damper, usually a single gas shock, that slows the tailgate as it opens so it lowers gently instead of slamming down. It works with the factory cables and is made for a specific truck.
What is a tailgate seal strip?
A tailgate seal strip is an adhesive rubber strip that closes the gap around the tailgate. It is mainly used with a truck cap or tonneau cover to keep dust, water, and fumes out of the bed.
Can a seal strip replace a damper kit?
No. A strip seals a gap, while a damper controls motion. If your tailgate slams, only a damper kit addresses that problem, and if dust enters, only a seal addresses that problem.
Do I need both a kit and a strip?
You might, if you have both problems: a slamming tailgate and dust entering under a cover. They are independent fixes, and fitting one does not make the other unnecessary.
Are tailgate assist kits universal?
No. Dee Zee kits are designed for specific trucks, and the correct part number depends on your truck. Always use the listing fitment checker before ordering.
Can I install a tailgate assist kit myself?
Most kits are described as a no-drill install with included hardware and household tools. Follow the maker instructions for your truck, including which side the damper mounts on.
What temperature should I apply a seal strip at?
ESI strips should be applied when the air and surface temperature is in the maker range, generally from the mid-50s to just over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, with firm pressure to bond the adhesive.
Will a seal strip work without a tonneau cover?
It can still reduce dust at the tailgate gap, but its main benefit appears with a cap or tonneau cover, where the cover makes the tailgate gap the main entry point.
Why does my tailgate still slam after fitting a kit?
Check that the part number matches your truck, that the damper is mounted on the correct side, and that the factory cables are in place. A worn shock or wrong kit will not control the drop.
Where can I find more Tailgate Assist Kits guides?
Start with the Tailgate Assist Kits category on this site, then read the related guides at the end of this article, which cover neighbouring products and the same kind of garage, truck, or off-road work. The category page collects every guide in this family, so it is the best place to compare a pick here with a related product before ordering.
Sources
- Dee Zee install report, driver-side mounting and warranty notes
- Tailgate damper options by truck, fitment discussion
- Dee Zee maker site, tailgate assist descriptions
- Extruded Solutions (ESI) maker site, tailgate seal descriptions
- Dee Zee Tailgate Assist installation instructions, driver-side mounting and warranty notes
- Truck owner forum, tailgate assist and bed accessory discussion
- Truck owner forum, F-150 tailgate assist discussion
- Owner discussion forum, truck accessory discussion
- Retailer listings and owner reviews for tailgate products
- Retailer listings and owner reviews for truck bed products
- Retailer listings and owner reviews for tailgate products
By Leo, Founder, WinchInsider
Leo researches automotive tools and recovery gear from maker specifications, manuals, and owner reports, and writes practical buying guides for truck, off-road, and garage use.