4th Gen Tailgate On 3rd Gen RAM (Beginners Guide)

A good number of people still drive a third-generation Dodge RAM truck.

However, getting some parts for these trucks can be quite challenging since they were only manufactured between 2003 and 2009.

So, because of this, owners of third-generation Dodge RAM trucks find alternative parts if there’s a need for a replacement. 

So, many owners wonder what happens in the case of the truck’s tailgate. Can a fourth-generation RAM’s tailgate fit on a third-generation Dodge RAM? 

A fourth-generation RAM tailgate would fit excellently on a third-generation Dodge RAM. This has created high levels of convenience for owners of third-generation Dodge RAM trucks. This is because the production of these third-generation RAM trucks was halted in 2008. On the other hand, third-generation RAM tailgates do not fit on fourth-generation RAM trucks.

Will A 4th Gen Dodge Tailgate Fit A 3rd Gen?

A fourth-generation RAM truck’s tailgate fits into a third-generation Dodge RAM truck.

But, you can only successfully install the tailgate into the truck after a little bit of bodywork.

This is because, despite the excellent compatibility, the fourth-generation tailgate wasn’t entirely designed for the third-generation Dodge RAM truck.

On the other hand, the third-generation Dodge RAM truck’s tailgate does not even fit with fourth-generation Dodge RAM trucks.

This is because the third generation RAM’s tailgate is a quarter-inch more extensive than the space allowing the entry of the fourth generation’s tailgate.

So, the tailgate of the third-generation RAM does not fit the space reserved for its attachment on the fourth-generation RAM truck.

This indicates that, for the third generation truck’s tailgate space, there is an allowance for the fourth generation’s tailgate placement.

In fact, there is even the need for an adjustment before it fits properly. 

But this entire situation doesn’t pose a complete disadvantage.

And this is because the fourth-generation Dodge RAM trucks are the most popular of the two since they were manufactured more recently.

So, it is far easier to obtain and install their parts if the need arises.

But for the third-generation Dodge RAM trucks manufactured between 2003 and 2009, it is relatively more challenging to obtain their parts.

But still, interchanging these tailgates only proves to be the easier option.

This is the reason many third-generation RAM truck owners opt for replacement with the fourth-generation RAM truck tailgates.

Another thing is that the tailgates of fourth-generation Dodge RAM trucks are far more expensive than their third-generation counterparts.

So, scarcity remains the primary reason owners opt for these tailgates instead of the authentic third-generation ones.

But other owners have attested to preferring the design of the fourth generation RAM trucks for some reason.

Are RAM 1500 Tailgates Interchangeable

Several RAM 1500 truck tailgates are interchangeable. But keep in mind that not all models are compatible with one another. 

For instance, a rebel tailgate goes excellently with the Laramie. In fact,  they both allow for a swap of tailgates without any problems.

But this is only possible if they are both DT or DS models. 

This implies that you cannot interchange the tailgates of RAM 1500 DT and RAM 1500 DS trucks; they just won’t fit.

So, the rules specify that you go for the tailgate of a DT RAM 1500 truck if yours is DT and the tailgate of a DS RAM 1500 truck if yours is DS.

The main things to consider when trying to change the tailgates of your truck are the latches and bodyline differences.

Once these do not match, this activity becomes a waste of time.

That notwithstanding, other RAM 1500 trucks have genuinely exclusive tailgates.

For instance, the 2019 Silverado 1500 and 2020 Silverado HD possess a power tailgate that is not interchangeable.

And most later models of THE RAM 1500 also do not permit switching of tailgates.

So, the things to consider when looking to switch tailgates are their compatibility and the models of the RAM 1500.

Also, while the design of other components such as hinges, sizes of bolts, and general functionality allows for interchange, others do not.

RAM 1500 is one of the lightest trucks in the fourth generation of RAM trucks. However, this truck can still haul a considerable amount of luggage.

So, you could load a fair amount of weight without the fear of your truck’s tailgate coming off. 

What Years Are Third And Fourth Generation Dodge RAM Trucks

The third-generation Dodge RAM trucks were produced between 2003 and 2008.

They encompassed a wide variety of improved designs and excellent features.

So, they came with significant upgrades in almost all aspects of the vehicle.

For instance, there was an all-new suspension, an improved frame, an optimized powertrain, an excellent interior layout, and the use of sheet metals.

In addition, the body styling included a two-door regular cab and a four-door quad cab. There was also a four-door mega cab and a dually.

On the other hand, the fourth generation Dodge RAM trucks first came out in 2009, and they’ve been in production until now.

But, they were first presented to the public at the North American International Auto show in 2008.

Unfortunately, the RAM truck brand split from Dodge a few years later in 2011. But this didn’t deter the manufacturer of these excellent tracks.

Body styling comprises a two-door regular cab, a four-door quad cab, and a four-door crew cab. In addition, there are four-door mega cab designs and dually.

Fourth-generation RAM trucks are the most common RAM trucks in the market. They also give you various options if you’re looking to purchase.

When you look into these trucks, you also get to look at multiple engine options. With loads of horsepower and torque, these engines provide features that entice you. 

Conclusion

Several circumstances warrant using fourth-generation RAM truck tailgates on third-generation Dodge RAM trucks.

This may be simply because of availability or to prevent additional costs.

However, it is highly possible to use fourth-generation tailgates on third-generation RAM trucks.

On the other hand, third-generation Dodge RAM tailgates do not fit on fourth-generation RAM trucks.