RIVAL 2AB.ST.1814.2 – controlled tailgate lowering
RIVAL 2AB.ST.1814.2 is a vehicle-specific tailgate damping kit designed to control the movement of a pick-up tailgate as it opens. Its STABILUS gas strut moderates the lowering speed, helping prevent the heavy tailgate from dropping abruptly. The kit is specified for Ford Ranger and Ranger Raptor 2022-on and Volkswagen Amarok 2023-on according to the RIVAL product sheet.
Key benefits
- Controlled tailgate lowering – a STABILUS gas strut moderates the tailgate's movement while opening.
- No drilling required – the system installs at the vehicle's existing factory mounting points.
- Steel construction – RIVAL specifies 4.0 mm steel and a black finish.
- Protected fittings – the product sheet specifies zinc-flake coated mounting components.
- Vehicle-specific design – the system is engineered for selected pick-up models rather than as a universal tailgate damper.
How does the Tailgate Assist work?
The gas strut operates as the tailgate is lowered, controlling its opening speed. This makes everyday access to the load bed more manageable without having to manually support the full dropping movement of the tailgate.
Important: part number 2AB.ST.1814.2 is designed to damp the tailgate while lowering. It should not be described as a system that assists with lifting or closing the tailgate.
Vehicle fitment
- Ford Ranger – 2022-on
- Ford Ranger Raptor – 2022-on
- Volkswagen Amarok – 2023-on according to the RIVAL product sheet
For early vehicles from the current Amarok generation, confirm the exact model year and tailgate specification before ordering, as RIVAL materials currently show different starting years for compatibility.
Installation
The kit uses factory mounting points and, according to RIVAL documentation, does not require new holes to be drilled. The product sheet also states compatibility with vehicles both with and without the rivet joint. Installation should follow the supplied fitting instructions.
Technical data
| Specification | Value |
|---|
| Brand | RIVAL |
| MPN | 2AB.ST.1814.2 |
| Product type | tailgate lowering damper kit |
| Strut | STABILUS gas strut |
| Bracket material | steel |
| Material thickness | 4.0 mm |
| Colour | black |
| Installation | factory mounting points, no drilling |
| Package dimensions | 230 × 85 × 30 mm |
| Packaged weight | 0.4 kg |
Kit contents
- tailgate gas strut,
- mounting bracket,
- mounting hardware,
- installation manual.
Frequently asked questions
Does this kit assist with lifting or closing the tailgate?
No. Part number 2AB.ST.1814.2 is designed to control the tailgate's lowering speed.
Is drilling required?
No. RIVAL specifies installation using the vehicle's existing factory mounting points.
Are 230 × 85 × 30 mm the dimensions of the gas strut?
No. These are the package dimensions stated on the product sheet. The available manufacturer documentation does not confirm the dimensions of the strut itself.