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.
Why Choose Torklift F2031 Front Tie-Downs
The Torklift F2031 front tie-downs are engineered specifically for 2019 - 2026 Ford F250/F350 trucks with short beds and bolt directly to your truck's frame. Be sure to use Torklift’s Fit Finder to confirm the exact fitment for your year, make and model. This direct frame mounting provides the strongest possible mounting solution for your camper, ensuring maximum security and stability during transport.
Initial Preparation
Before beginning the installation, you'll need to prepare both sides of your truck by loosening the forward leaf spring hanger nut. If the bolt doesn't move freely, use a hammer to lightly tap it out approximately half an inch. This initial step creates the necessary clearance for installing the tie-down components.
Passenger Side Installation
Installing the Receiver
Start by inserting the coil end of the provided bolt fisher through hole B and out of hole A. Next, attach a half inch bolt, plate washer, and star washer onto the coiled end, inserting each piece one at a time back through the hole.
Place the receiver onto the bolt while simultaneously positioning it onto the leaf spring hanger nut. Secure everything with a flat washer, lock washer, and nut.
Securing the Receiver
Insert two 5/16 bolts with flat washers through the slot and vertical gussets on the receiver. Secure these with the provided 5/16 hardware to ensure the receiver is firmly attached.
Installing the Support Strap
Remove the exhaust hanger bracket from the inside of the frame, but leave the clip on nuts in place. Feed a bolt fisher through the hole on the inside of the frame, going back through hole A from the earlier step. Use the appropriate hardware to feed through the frame.
Place the passenger support strap over the bolt and secure it with a flat washer, lock washer, and nut. Line up the passenger support strap with the tie down receiver hole and secure it with the provided hardware.
Final Passenger Side Steps
Torque all bolts to the appropriate specifications as outlined in your installation manual. Once everything is properly tightened, reattach the exhaust hanger bracket to the frame.
Driver Side Installation
2023 and Newer Models
For 2023 and up Ford models, the driver's side installation requires an additional step. You'll need to remove four bolts that hold a side impact bracket to the truck frame. After removing these bolts from the frame, remove the threaded bolt clip as shown in your instructions.
Installing the Bolt Fisher
Insert the bolt fisher through the round hole and out of the square hole. Attach the half inch bolt with a star washer and plate washer to the coiled end, then feed it through the frame one piece at a time.
If you haven't already done so, loosen the leaf spring bolt at this point.
Securing the Driver Side Receiver
Use the square hole to thread another bolt through the hole toward the front of the truck. Secure the receiver onto the bolts, pulling them through both the frame and the receiver. Secure the bolts with the provided hardware.
Install the 3/4 inch steel spacers onto the middle bolt where the threaded clip was previously located. This ensures proper spacing and alignment.
Final Driver Side Assembly
Place the 5/16 hardware through the two upper holes on the tie down, with one bolt facing each direction. Tighten all hardware to the specifications described in your installation booklet, making sure to properly tighten the leaf spring hanger nuts.
Using Your Tie-Downs
Once installation is complete, using your Torklift tie-downs is straightforward. Simply slide the inserts into the receiver and secure them with the provided snapper pins. This quick-connect system allows for easy attachment and removal of your camper tie-down points.
Important Installation Notes
Remember that torque specifications are critical for safe installation. Always refer to the specifications provided in your installation booklet when tightening hardware. The leaf spring hanger nuts require particular attention to ensure they're properly secured.
Installation instructions are updated regularly to reflect the latest best practices and vehicle-specific requirements. Always consult the most current instructions included with your Torklift products.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Torklift F2031 tie-downs the strongest mounting solution?
The F2031 tie-downs bolt directly to your truck's frame, providing the most secure attachment point possible for your camper.
Do I need to completely remove the leaf spring hanger bolt?
No, you only need to loosen it and tap it out approximately half an inch to create the necessary clearance.
What should I do with the exhaust hanger bracket during installation?
Remove the exhaust hanger bracket from the inside of the frame during installation, but leave the clip on nuts in place. Reattach the bracket after securing all passenger side components.
Is the installation different for 2023 and newer Ford models?
Yes, 2023 and up models have a side impact bracket on the driver's side with four bolts that must be removed before proceeding with the installation.
Where do the steel spacers go?
The 3/4 inch steel spacers are installed on the middle bolt on the driver's side, where the threaded clip was previously located.
How do I use the tie-downs once they're installed?
Simply slide the inserts into the receiver and secure them with the provided snapper pins.
Where can I get help if I have questions during installation?
For questions, visit the Torklift website or call (800)246-8132 for assistance.