Can I convert my existing tailgate to the step assist tailgate? Can it be done without having to replace the whole tailgate?

 

Short answer, no.

 

Would require an entire tailgate swap.

 

When (what model year) did step tailrgate come out?

 

I'm thinking 2010!

If you have one, Remember to ALWAYS Lock it!

This is a hot item for thieves!

 

There are quite a few aftermarket tailgate steps out there. Obviously, they wont tuck away inside the tailgate like the stock one, but it will be much, much cheaper. Even if by chance you found one of these tailgates in a junkyard, I'm sure they would want big bucks for it. Plus, you would most likely need to get it painted to match your truck.

 

Actually, the step first became available on the '08 models. And you can use the same tailgate across all three 6.4 model years.

 

I read in another thread that you have to change the left side mounting bracket as well because the 08 on tailgate has a spring system in to make it easier to close it.It's pretty straightforward. You just get the 08 on left bracket and your done.

 

mountie, I'll have to look for that as my '08 doesn't. May be a '10 thing or even '09 but wasn't available on '08 that I know of.

 

It was available on the '08. When I ordered mine it was definitely available ($375) and advertised in their TV commercials. I didn't order it since I was going to install a liftgate anyway.

 

I went through every option with the GM when I special ordered mine, that option wasn't there at that time. Know when they offered it?

 

Not really, I ordered mine in March of '08. I built the truck on the website first and said, "Here, order me this truck."

 

I did that as well, then went through all the options sitting at his desk. Don't ever recall that one.

If you know the part number for it, let me know, I'd like to check that out.

 

I was thinking about this on my '04 last night, I was beat, so I asked the wife to jump up there and sweep out the bed, she's 4 yrs younger and SHE DID so now I don't need a step, lol

 

40 bucks and a half hour with the cordless drill. Actually a pretty sturdy ladder.