My Verdict on the Stromberg Carlson VGM-07-100 Vented 100 Series Tailgate
As someone who spends a significant amount of time on the road with a trailer, particularly fifth-wheel or gooseneck setups, I’m always looking for ways to improve functionality and, crucially, visibility. The Stromberg Carlson VGM-07-100 Vented 100 Series Tailgate for Chevy/GMC 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks from 2007-2013 models caught my eye for its specific design catering to this niche need. My previous tailgate, while functional, had become a bit of a visual obstruction when maneuvering my trailer, leading to a constant need for camera reliance and occasional guesswork. I was seeking a replacement that offered a clearer line of sight without sacrificing the security and utility of a tailgate.
Initial impressions upon unboxing were positive. The Stromberg Carlson VGM-07-100 felt solid, constructed from what appeared to be robust materials. The vented design immediately struck me as the key differentiating factor, promising to address my primary concern. While I considered generic replacement tailgates, their lack of specialized features for towing made them less appealing. This vented model from Stromberg Carlson offered a more targeted solution. My first reaction was one of practical optimism, a feeling that this might finally solve a persistent towing annoyance.
Real-World Testing: Putting the Stromberg Carlson VGM-07-100 Vented 100 Series Tailgate to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for this vented tailgate was the familiar terrain of my own driveway and the immediate surrounding streets, followed by a planned trip to a local campground. The primary goal was to assess its ease of installation and how it performed during everyday driving and initial maneuvering with my fifth-wheel trailer attached. The installation process, which involved reusing existing tailgate cables, was straightforward, taking just under an hour with a few basic tools.
During the first few drives, the most noticeable difference was the improved rearward visibility. Maneuvering in tight spaces, like backing into a campsite, felt significantly less stressful. The open design of the tailgate, a key feature of the Stromberg Carlson VGM-07-100, genuinely reduced the blind spots that my old tailgate created. There were no immediate issues or surprising quirks, just a steady improvement in my confidence when the trailer was coupled.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and multiple towing trips covering hundreds of miles, the Stromberg Carlson VGM-07-100 has held up remarkably well. Daily use, including loading and unloading various gear into the truck bed, hasn’t shown any signs of significant wear. The 16-gauge steel tubing construction feels as sturdy as it did on day one, with no creaking or flexing, even over rough roads.
Maintenance has been minimal. A quick rinse with a hose and a wipe-down are usually sufficient to keep it clean, and the vented design helps prevent debris from accumulating as easily as it might on a solid tailgate. Compared to previous experiences with aftermarket tailgates that sometimes developed rattling issues or cosmetic damage quickly, this Stromberg Carlson unit has proven to be a reliable performer. It’s held its own against some light weather exposure without any signs of rust or degradation.
Breaking Down the Features of the Stromberg Carlson VGM-07-100 Vented 100 Series Tailgate
Specifications
The Stromberg Carlson VGM-07-100 Vented 100 Series Tailgate is specifically designed for a range of Chevy and GMC full-size trucks, fitting the 1500 models from 2007-2013 and the 2500/3500 models from 2008-2013. It’s constructed from heavy-duty 16-gauge steel tubing, providing a robust and durable build. A significant design element is its open, vented construction, which is crucial for improving visibility when towing large trailers.
The tailgate does not include tailgate cables; users are instructed to reuse their existing ones or purchase replacements separately from an auto parts store. It is explicitly stated that this tailgate is designed for full-size truck beds only and is not compatible with step-side trucks. The product also carries a limited one-year warranty.
Performance & Functionality
The core function of this tailgate—improving visibility for towing—is where the Stromberg Carlson VGM-07-100 truly shines. The open design effectively eliminates the visual barrier that traditional tailgates present when a fifth-wheel or gooseneck trailer is connected, allowing for a much clearer view of the hitch and surrounding area through the truck’s rear window. This significantly enhances maneuverability and reduces the anxiety often associated with hitching and backing up.
Beyond improved visibility, the vented design also contributes to reducing drag, a subtle but welcome benefit that can have a minor positive impact on fuel efficiency during highway towing. The heavy-duty 16-gauge steel tubing ensures that it can withstand the rigors of truck bed use when not towing, functioning as a perfectly capable tailgate for hauling standard cargo. Its main strength lies in its specialized utility for trailer owners, exceeding expectations in that regard.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Stromberg Carlson VGM-07-100 is pragmatic and focused on its intended purpose. The use of 16-gauge steel tubing gives it a substantial feel, indicating a strong build quality without being excessively heavy. The finish, while not specified, appears to be a standard black powder coat, which is functional and looks appropriate on most truck aesthetics.
Ergonomically, it operates like any other tailgate, swinging down smoothly on its hinges. The vented pattern is well-executed, providing ample openings for visibility without compromising the structural integrity of the tailgate. While it doesn’t boast intricate ergonomic features, its straightforward design makes it intuitive to use; there’s no learning curve beyond understanding its primary benefit for towing. The ability to paint it to match your truck is a thoughtful design option for those who prioritize a factory look.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its 16-gauge steel tubing construction, the Stromberg Carlson VGM-07-100 Vented 100 Series Tailgate is built for longevity. Under normal towing and hauling conditions, it should last for many years. The materials seem robust enough to resist bending or damage from typical bed use.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple. The open design means less surface area to clean and fewer places for dirt and grime to lodge. A quick wash with soap and water is usually all that’s needed. There are no specific lubrication points or complex mechanisms to worry about, making it a low-maintenance addition to the truck. Potential failure points are minimal, likely limited to damage from extreme impacts or potential corrosion if the coating is severely compromised.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Stromberg Carlson VGM-07-100 Vented 100 Series Tailgate is intentionally designed to integrate with existing truck hardware, primarily requiring the reuse of the original tailgate cables. These are not included with the unit, so users need to either have them on hand or source them separately from an auto parts store. Beyond that, the primary customization option mentioned is the ability to paint it to match your truck.
There are no other specific accessories that come with this tailgate. Its focus is on functionality, not on bundling numerous extras. While it doesn’t come with integrated lighting or other advanced features, its core design prioritizes a clear line of sight for trailer towing, which is its main selling point.
Pros and Cons of the Stromberg Carlson VGM-07-100 Vented 100 Series Tailgate
Pros
- Significantly improves rear visibility when towing fifth-wheel or gooseneck trailers, directly addressing a common towing challenge.
- Constructed from heavy-duty 16-gauge steel tubing, ensuring durability and a robust feel.
- The open design also helps to reduce drag, potentially offering minor fuel efficiency benefits.
- Installation is generally straightforward, relying on existing tailgate cables.
- Can be painted to match your truck for a customized look.
Cons
- Does not include tailgate cables, requiring users to source them separately.
- Specifically designed for full-size trucks and not compatible with step-side models.
- Price point ($361.95) might be a consideration for some budget-conscious buyers.
- The limited one-year warranty is standard but perhaps less extensive than some premium aftermarket options.
Who Should Buy the Stromberg Carlson VGM-07-100 Vented 100 Series Tailgate?
This Stromberg Carlson tailgate is an excellent choice for any owner of a compatible Chevy or GMC 1500, 2500, or 3500 truck (model years 2007-2013) who regularly tows a fifth-wheel or gooseneck trailer. If you find yourself struggling with rear visibility issues when your trailer is hitched, or if you rely heavily on backup cameras due to blind spots created by your factory tailgate, this product offers a tangible solution. It’s ideal for those who prioritize functional improvements for their towing experience over standard tailgate aesthetics.
Conversely, individuals who do not tow large trailers, or who own a step-side truck, should look elsewhere. Those prioritizing a solid, unbroken tailgate for security or maximum cargo containment might also prefer a traditional design, though the open nature of this model is its key functional benefit. For those who do tow, a good set of aftermarket tailgate cables is a wise complementary purchase if you don’t have your existing ones in good condition.
Conclusion on the Stromberg Carlson VGM-07-100 Vented 100 Series Tailgate
The Stromberg Carlson VGM-07-100 Vented 100 Series Tailgate delivers precisely what it promises: enhanced visibility for trailer towing. Its 16-gauge steel tubing construction ensures it’s built to last, and the thoughtful vented design significantly mitigates the common blind spots encountered when hitching fifth-wheel or gooseneck trailers. While it requires the user to supply their own tailgate cables and is limited to specific full-size truck models, its performance in its intended application is undeniably effective.
For the price of $361.95, the value proposition is strong for frequent tower. It directly addresses a functional pain point with a well-executed design. I would absolutely recommend this tailgate to fellow truck owners who regularly hook up large trailers and find themselves wishing for a clearer view. It’s a practical upgrade that makes a noticeable difference in the towing experience, offering peace of mind and improved maneuverability on the road and at the campsite.