Ram 2500 Tailgate Removal

[Boaring1961]

I have a 2005 Ram 2500 QC Bighorn Edition and I want to remove the tailgate. The tailgate has what looks like a factory installed assist spring that is preventing me from fully removing the tailgate.



Does anyone know how to get the tailgate past this darn thing or do I need to get rid of it? If I need to get rid of it any suggestions on how to do it without scratching the crap out of the paint?



Here's a couple of picts.

 

[Bob4x4]

That is an aftermarket torsion spring. Works just like the older dodge deck lids. I have not played wit one but a friend added one to his truck. Said it was a snap to install

 

[Boaring1961]

It does work well, but I couldn't get it to come out of the tailgate when I tried to remove it. Any thoughts?

 

[Bob4x4]

Possibly while lifting t gate off of quick release hinge you will be able to slide the gate off and the spring will unload

 

[Shadrach]

I had one installed one on my 03. While it helps make the gate a lot "lighter" to open and close it makes it more difficult to remove the tailgate. It has a "dogleg" bend on each end and it took me a while to figure it out. Having a second person makes it a lot easier. This is what it looks like http://www.etrailer.com/Truck-Bed-Accessories/Hopkins/74211.html Shad

 

[EricBu12]

Take the tailgate off as normal. have a friend help hold near vertical. slide the rod out of the tailgate. there is a couple little wrinkles at the end of the rod you have to tilt the tailgate to get the rod out. . after that is off, then remove the rest of the rod from the side. . lift up and slide out. .