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 a Torklift NorthHitch on your Ford F-250 or F-350 is a straightforward process that optimizes your truck's front-end towing capabilities. This guide walks you through the installation of the NorthHitch part number X7908, helping you complete the job with confidence.
Preparing Your Truck for Installation
Before you begin mounting the new hitch, you'll need to remove several factory components from your truck's front end.
Start by removing your license plate from the factory license plate bracket. Once the plate is off, remove and discard the plastic plate bracket itself. You won't be reusing this component.
Next, locate the three plastic push pins that hold the cover panel to the front bumper. Remove and discard all three push pins.
You'll also need to address the front bumper electrical harness. Unclip the hardware that secures this harness to the front bumper, freeing it for repositioning later in the installation.
Removing Factory Brackets
The factory mounting brackets must be removed to make way for your new NorthHitch.
Locate the four nuts holding the brackets to each frame rail. Remove these nuts and take off both brackets. Discard both the brackets and all factory hardware, as you'll be using the supplied Torklift hardware for your new hitch.
Understanding Mounting Hole Locations
Before proceeding with the bolt installation, refer to page seven in your installation instructions. This page provides detailed information about the mounting hole locations you'll be working with throughout the installation process.
Installing Hardware in Hole C
The bolt fisher is a specialized tool included with your hitch that makes threading bolts through the frame rail much easier.
Insert the coil end of the supplied bolt fisher into hole C. Guide it through the opening of the frame rail towards the front of the truck.
Attach a bolt, star washer, and plate washer to the fisher. Pull the assembly until the hardware sits inside the frame rail without protruding through the hole. This positions the bolt perfectly for the next step.
Repeat this entire process on the opposite side of the truck.
Positioning the Hitch
With the hardware prepared in both frame rails, you're ready to install the main hitch assembly.
Raise the hitch between the frame rails. Place the wire end of the bolt fisher through hole C on both side plates of the hitch.
Lift the hitch into its final position and pull the fisher until the bolt protrudes from the hitch side plate. Remove the fisher and hand tighten a flat washer, split washer, and nut onto the bolt. Don't fully torque this hardware yet.
Securing Holes A and B
Using the bolt fisher, guide a bolt and star washer through the frame and into hole A. Secure the bolt with a flat washer, split washer, and nut.
Repeat this exact process for hole B.
Installing Hardware in Hole D
Insert the bolt fisher through hole D and guide it out the front of the frame rail. Attach a bolt, star washer, and plate washer to the fisher, then pull the assembly through the frame and out hole D.
Secure this bolt with one flat washer, split washer, and nut.
Repeat all the previous mounting steps on the opposite side of the hitch to ensure both sides are equally secured.
Final Torque and Finishing Touches
With all hardware in place on both sides, torque all bolts to the specifications recommended in your installation instructions. Proper torque is critical for safe operation and long-term durability.
Use the supplied zip ties to secure the cover panel and electrical harness around the hitch cross member. This keeps everything neat and prevents interference with the hitch.
Your North Hitch installation is now complete.
Optional License Plate Bracket
Your North Hitch includes an optional license plate bracket that secures directly to the receiver. If you need to mount your license plate on the front of your vehicle, this bracket provides a convenient mounting solution.
Important Installation Reminders
This guide provides an overview reference for the installation process. Always refer to the official Torklift instructions when installing your NorthHitch, as these instructions are updated regularly with the latest information and specifications.
The written instructions included with your product contain critical details about torque specifications, safety information, and vehicle-specific requirements that ensure proper installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the part number for the NorthHitch that fits the Ford F-250?
The North Hitch part number X7908 is designed for installation on the 2011 - 2016 Ford F250, F350, and F40 Super Duty trucks.
Do I need to keep any of the factory hardware?
No. You should discard both the factory brackets and all factory hardware. The NorthHitch comes with all the hardware you need for installation.
What is a bolt fisher and why is it included?
A bolt fisher is a specialized installation tool included with your hitch. It helps you thread bolts through the frame rail by guiding them to the correct position, making installation much easier.
Can I mount my license plate on the NorthHitch?
Yes. The NorthHitch includes a license plate bracket that secures to the receiver, providing a mounting location for your front license plate if needed.
Where can I find the torque specifications for the bolts?
Torque specifications are provided in the installation instructions that come with your NorthHitch. Always refer to these instructions for the correct torque values.
What should I do if I have questions during installation?
For any questions about your Torklift product installation, visit the Torklift website or call (800)246-8132 for assistance.
Are the installation instructions updated?
Yes. Torklift regularly updates their installation instructions, which is why you should always refer to the instructions included with your specific product rather than relying solely on video guides.