Ford F150 tailgate clearance with T@B 320 a-frame jack

klenger · July 2019

I am purchasing a new 2019 F150 and would like to be able to drop the tailgate for loading and unloading with the T@B hitched up. I don't have access to the truck at this time to get any measurements, but wondering what the experience is with other members towing a 320 with an F150. I'm hoping that a longer ball mount bar will solve the issue, but am well aware of the leverage issue this creates. I think I can get a ball mount that is up to 13" long, but would prefer to go shorter. I currently have a 10-1/2" draw bar for my Jeep Wrangler and it works with no issues at all (on the Jeep).

Mouseketab · July 2019

I've seen pictures where the tailgate is an issue. You could get a Jack-E-Up (Allows you to remove the post when towing)

https://www.amazon.com/Jack-Up-5154-Heavy-Universal/dp/B0781V9B8B/ref=asc_df_B0781V9B8B/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312094794632&hvpos=1o4&hvnetw=g&hvrand=16657028361106193875&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9012692&hvtargid=pla-569720764480&psc=1&tag=&ref=&adgrpid=60223452937&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvadid=312094794632&hvpos=1o4&hvnetw=g&hvrand=16657028361106193875&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9012692&hvtargid=pla-569720764480

klenger · July 2019

Thank you. I am aware of the solution noted above, but I have replaced my manual jack with a motorized jack and really hate to loose it.

Tabster · July 2019

I have an f150 and a 320cs. Same problem. Got a short hitch extender and hitch tightener and problem solved. Been towing this way for 2 years. Frequently go 80 on the freeway. No problems at all

Cbusguy · July 2019

I was pondering the extension for the receiver, but a warning on the frame says not to do it. hmmm, sounds like an endorsement to me, I might need to try it. I just need about 4 inches.

On the 2020 320 the Jack E up is not a direct install but will take some modification to make it work, I took a look at it and then returned it as it involved modifying most of the bolts on the hitch.

Adam_Hough · July 2019

What is the length of your current ball mount? You can get get longer ones. https://www.reesehitches.com/categories/Ball_Mounts_to_fit_2_Inch_Receivers,461

Cbusguy · July 2019

@Adam_Hough thx for the link and they are very reasonably priced.

klenger · July 2019

I did manage to get a measurement using my 10-1/2" long ball mount bar on another truck at the dealer. Using that draw bar, the hitch ball is 10" forward of the rear edge of the tailgate. What I don't have at this time is the measurement from the T@B coupler socket to the a-frame jack. 13" ball mounts are available, and might work, but that puts a fair amount of leverage on the truck's receiver. If in the end I can't drop the tailgate, I'll just have to deal with it. When the T@B is hitched to my Jeep Wrangler, I can manage to open the read door about 2" before the spare tire hits the trailer. At least with a truck, I can access the truck bed from the top. Thanks for the feedback.

If anyone is near your T@B and could measure the distance from the center of the coupler socket to the front of the jack tube, that would be most helpful.

Sharon_is_SAM · July 2019

@klenger - I measured 11.5 inches.

klenger · July 2019

^^ Thank you. With those measurements, I can get by with my 10-1/2" ball mount bar with 1-1/2" to spare. Too close to call w/o actually hooking it up.

rkj__ · July 2019

I have no issues dropping the tailgate on my Sierra with the CS-S in tow. I’m sure you will be able to make things work with the F-150.

I would not not hesitate to use a longer ball mount if required, given the capacity of the truck, and the weight of the trailer.

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Ford F150 tailgate clearance with T@B 320 a-frame jack

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