Review on 🚚 Enhanced Truck Tailgate Assist by Dee Zee - DZ43300 by David Caldwell

Okay so this review is mostly about installation and fit. The packaging clearly states that it "should" fit my 2004 Dodge 3500. first problem. The shock's lower ball mount installs in a pre-drilled hole next to the pivot point. This hole is unthreaded, so they use an anchor that expands on the back, like a drywall anchor. The instructions are VERY clear that you install it 3/4" apart (if you see the instructions you will understand) and then turn the nut ONLY 9 times while holding the center set screw. I did this and it didn't work. fell off and I actually pulled it out the way it came in. So I read a lot of other reviews and realized that others need to turn a lot or install with 1/2 inch gap. Once I install the new corrected gap, it holds up fine. second problem. The top ball mount was designed by a 10 year old Dilbert engineer who not only doesn't own a truck but drives a Prius so he hates truck owners and wants to destroy them. The bracket sticks out too far. A simple redesign would solve this problem, and Dee Zee is aware of the problem, but not only do they NOT tell people they're trying to cover it up. (More on that later) Many other reviewers have been able to fix the issue with a much thinner shim, but mine will still scratch the tailgate when I close it. So I called their client NO SERVICE. The agent basically told me they are aware of the issues but the cookies are hard. She said I would have to drill out the bottom ball joint mount to get it out there as I can't install it. When I suggested that they be open with buyers about fit issues, include a thinner washer anyway, and warn them not to scratch the tailgate, she blew me away. Now I'll say that if you're lucky enough to pick this up, lucky not to scratch the tailgate, it's pretty neat. When I lower the tailgate it's nice to see it come down easily. My truck, which I bought new, has never been in an accident and has almost never been allowed into a public lot, had no adjustments or back door issues. - and I tested it to be sure. The tailgate wouldn't close at all with this one installed unless I wanted a messed up tailgate. My only options at this point are to either return the thing (pain), drill out the bottom bracket (big issue), or try to dent/bend the shock head and top slightly, just enough to clear the tailgate and still work properly to function. Such a great idea was wasted by an incompetent engineer, a useless customer service department, and a company that clearly doesn't value its customers.