Installation Disclaimer: This blog is intended as a general reference only. It may not include every step, tool, torque specification, or vehicle-specific detail needed for your installation. Always refer to the official installation instructions included with your product for the complete procedure, required tools, torque values, safety information, and fitment details.
Installing the F2016 front tie-downs on your Ford truck provides secure mounting points for safely transporting cargo in your truck bed. While the installation process is straightforward, it's important to understand that there are different installation methods depending on your specific truck configuration.
Before You Begin
The F2016 tie-down system can be installed in several ways depending on your truck's specifications. Always consult the installation instructions that came with your product, as these are updated regularly to reflect the latest installation procedures.
One common obstacle you may encounter is factory stickers covering the mounting holes. To locate these holes, look from the inside of the frame to identify where the sticker is blocking access.
Passenger Side Installation
Start your installation on the passenger side of the vehicle. Begin by inserting the hardware into the mounting hole to keep it secure during the installation process.
Installing the Hook Bolts
The hook bolts are a critical component of this installation. Assemble your hardware so that the hook bolts can be positioned on both the top and bottom portions of the frame. These hook bolts provide the mounting points for the upper and lower portions of the receiver.
Different Ford vehicles will have slightly different bolt installations in the frame. Torklift recommends having at least three points of contact, with two of them utilizing the hook bolts on the upper and lower portions of the frame. This ensures maximum strength and stability for your tie down system.
Driver Side Installation
Moving to the driver side, begin with the hook bracket on the upper portion of the frame and the receiver.
Hardware Placement
Place the hardware with the bolt into the hole so you can pull it back through as a mounting point. This creates a secure attachment point for the tie down system.
Addressing Missing Factory Brackets
If your truck does not have the factory side impact bracket, you'll need to compensate for that gap. Use a two by two center hole spacer to level out the installation. This ensures proper alignment for the two-hole gusset that connects the frame to the tie down receiver.
Installing the Gusset
Using the appropriate hardware, install your gusset to connect your tie down to the frame. This gusset provides additional structural support and distributes the load across multiple mounting points.
Once the gusset is installed, go over all your bolts and torque them down to the proper specifications. Proper torque is essential for ensuring the tie downs can safely handle the loads they're designed for.
E-Brake Line Relocation
The F2016 system includes an e-brake relocator bracket to ensure the brake line sits below the receiver rather than above it. This prevents interference and potential damage to the brake line.
To install the e-brake relocator:
- Remove the e-brake line from its current position
- Slide the gusset onto the line
- Attach the bracket to the frame using the appropriate hardware
This relocation ensures the brake line is properly positioned and protected once the tie-down receiver is installed.
Final Steps
After all mounting hardware is secured and properly torqued, the installation is nearly complete. When you're ready to use your tie downs, simply insert the tie-down inserts into the receivers and secure them with the provided safety pins.
The safety pins are an important feature that prevents the inserts from accidentally coming loose during transport.
Important Reminders
This installation guide is provided as a visual reference to help you understand the general installation process. However, you should always refer to the official instructions included with your Torklift product, as these are updated regularly to reflect the most current installation procedures and specifications.
The installation process may vary based on your specific Ford model and year, as well as the factory equipment installed on your truck.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if there are stickers covering my mounting holes?
Look from the inside of the frame to identify where the holes are located. This will help you determine where the stickers need to be removed to access the mounting points.
How many mounting points should I use?
Torklift recommends at least three points of contact, with two of them utilizing hook bolts on the upper and lower portions of the frame.
What if my truck doesn't have the factory side impact bracket?
Use a two by two center hole spacer to make up the gap. This will level out the installation for the two-hole gusset that connects the frame to the tie down receiver.
Why do I need to relocate the e-brake line?
The e-brake line needs to be positioned below the receiver rather than above it to prevent interference and potential damage. The F2016 system includes a relocator bracket specifically for this purpose.
Where can I get help if I have questions during installation?
For any questions, visit Torklift at torklift.com or call 800-246-8132.
Should I follow this guide or the printed instructions?
Always refer to the official instructions included with your Torklift product. They are updated regularly and contain the most current installation procedures, torque specifications, and safety information for your specific application.