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 frame-mounted tie downs doesn't have to be complicated. With the right guidance and quality equipment, you can complete a professional installation in about 20 minutes. Joel Crawford, Operations Manager at Torklift International with over 11 years of experience across production, shipping, research and development, and administration, walks through the complete installation process for Torklift's true frame mount tie down system.

Verifying Your Package Before Installation

Before you begin any installation, inspect your tie down package carefully. Torklift packages each unit with a white security label that covers all three flaps of the box. This label ensures the box hasn't been opened during distribution or at the dealer.

The security label includes:

  • Date the unit was packaged
  • Packager identification number
  • Box weight to verify all parts are included

If you find the box appears to have been opened, contact your dealer immediately to verify all parts are present. You can also reach Torklift directly at 1-800-246-8132 for assistance.

What's Inside the Box

Your tie down kit contains everything needed for installation:

  • Driver side receiver
  • Passenger side receiver
  • Two inserts
  • Complete bolt kit with all necessary hardware
  • Installation instructions

When you open the box, first verify that the part number on the instructions matches your box. Don't be concerned if the year or fitment listed doesn't exactly match your truck. Tie down kits may sit in distribution for a year or more, and Torklift updates these specifications constantly. Simply check that your bolt kit matches the instructions, and verify all receivers, hardware, and inserts are present.

No-Drill Installation for Most Applications

Torklift manufactures approximately 130 different tie down applications, and 98% require no drilling. The system is designed to work with your truck's existing frame holes and mounting points.

Installing Front Tie Downs

The demonstration vehicle is a 2005 Ford F350 long bed without running boards, equipped with a SuperHitch Magnum in the rear. The installation process begins on the passenger side.

Locating the Mounting Point

Start by locating your rear cab mount. Directly behind this, your bed begins at the bed hat cross member. This is where the front tie down units install to the frame.

Front Installation Steps

Step 1: Install the First Hook Bolt

Grab your hook bolt with a 1/2 inch grade 8 bolt. Go up behind the frame where it latches on and slides right into place.

Step 2: Position the Frame Unit

Take the frame unit and place it up over that bolt. Grab your second hook bolt and slide it directly over the frame using the pre-existing holes.

Step 3: Add Hardware (Hand Tight)

Install the following hardware in order:

  • Two flat washers onto the grade 8 bolt
  • One 1/2 inch lock washer
  • One 1/2 inch grade 8 nut

Leave these hand tight. This ensures the frame unit won't come off and cause injury, but allows adjustment. Once hand tight, the tie down can be released safely and won't fall off the frame.

Step 4: Install the Third Bolt

For the final mounting point, install a 1/2 x 2 bolt with:

  • Two 1/2 inch flat washers
  • One 1 x 2 plate washer on the inside
  • One 1/2 inch lock washer
  • One 1/2 inch nut

Snug everything down hand tight so you can still move the tie down if needed.

Step 5: Torque to Specification

You can use basic hand tools for this installation. If using an impact wrench, set it to the specific torque rating listed in your instruction book. Torque down each bolt in sequence, finishing with the top third bolt at the top of the frame.

Step 6: Insert and Position

After everything is torqued to specification, insert your inserts. Depending on how far your turnbuckles come down, you have two separate locations to pin. The insert locks into place and is ready to go.

Critical Front Tie Down Orientation

The bullet plate always faces toward the front on your front units. You have two locations to hook your turnbuckle, and you want to achieve the most pulling angle forward in the front.

Apply the appropriate sticker (driver or passenger front) to complete the installation. This specific front tie down installation takes approximately 20 minutes.

Using the Bolt Fisher Tool

Sometimes you'll encounter installation challenges, particularly on the driver's side where the fuel tank can make it difficult to get your hands behind the frame. Torklift provides a bolt fisher tool to solve this problem.

Bolt Fisher Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bolt

Screw the bolt fisher onto the 1/2 inch bolt and get it snug. Add your hardware (star washer, flat washer, etc.) onto the bolt, but don't push the washers all the way down. Let them hang partway on the bolt.

Step 2: Fish Into Position

Take the bolt fisher end that doesn't have the spring or bolt and fish it into the frame. Pull it up, then push the washers in first, followed by the bolt. Pull everything all the way through.

Step 3: Leave It Hanging

When doing your install, leave the bolt fisher hanging so the bolt doesn't fall back into your frame. This is very important for maintaining control during installation.

Installing Rear Tie Downs

Rear tie down installation is straightforward, especially with an open-ended cross member like the SuperHitch Magnum.

Rear Installation Steps

Step 1: Remove Existing Hardware

Remove the rib neck bolt from the mounting hole on your cross member.

Step 2: Position the Tie Down

Grab your rear tie down and slide it to the cross tube. The hole will line up perfectly.

Step 3: Install Hardware

Reinsert the rib neck bolt, add a lock washer on the rear, and finally thread on the nut. Get it finger tight initially. You can use hand tools or an impact wrench with an open-end wrench on the back.

Step 4: Insert and Orient

Take your insert and remember that the bullet faces toward the rear on rear tie downs (opposite of the front). Slide it in and secure with the snap pin all the way through.

Step 5: Apply Sticker

Apply the passenger rear sticker to complete the installation.

In the rear, the tie downs are flipped backwards compared to the front to get the most pulling force toward the rear of the vehicle.

Where to Purchase Torklift Tie Downs

Torklift products are available through over 2,500 dealers across the United States, Canada, Japan, Europe, and Australia. Most dealers can get tie downs to you overnight. Because tie downs are vehicle-specific, many dealers don't stock them on-site but can order them quickly for next-day delivery.

Caring for Your Tie Downs

Torklift offers a finishing kit to protect your investment and keep your tie downs functioning properly.

Using the Finishing Kit

The finishing kit includes foam inserts and caps. For the rear of the tie down, which has a straight tube design:

  • Insert the foam piece into the back of the tie down
  • Cap the front end

This keeps mud, debris, and everything else out of the receiver's interior.

If you cannot access the rear of the tie down because it's already installed, insert the foam from the front and push it through with an extension toward the rear.

Warranty Registration

Torklift tie downs come with a lifetime warranty. You'll find the warranty registration card in the back of your inspection manual. Register your warranty through any of these methods:

All contact information is provided in your instruction manual.

Tools and Installation Time

The entire tie down installation can be completed with basic hand tools. While the demonstration uses an impact wrench set to specific torque ratings, standard wrenches and sockets work perfectly well. Expect to spend about 20 minutes per tie down once you're familiar with the process.

Getting Help When You Need It

If you encounter any issues during installation, Torklift provides live technical support. Contact them at 1-800-246-8132 for assistance. You can also visit torklift.com for a full dealer locator and access to all their applications and resources.

The key to a successful installation is taking your time, following the instructions, and keeping all hardware hand tight until you're ready for final torquing. This allows for adjustments and ensures proper alignment before permanent installation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to install Torklift tie downs?

A complete tie down installation takes approximately 20 minutes once you're familiar with the process and have all your tools ready.

Do I need to drill holes in my truck frame?

No. Torklift manufactures about 130 different applications, and 98% require no drilling. The system uses pre-existing frame holes and mounting points.

What if the year on my instructions doesn't match my truck?

Don't worry. Tie down kits may sit in distribution for a year or more, and Torklift updates specifications constantly. Simply verify that your bolt kit matches the instructions and all parts are present.

Which direction should the bullet plate face?

On front tie downs, the bullet plate always faces toward the front. On rear tie downs, it faces toward the rear. This orientation provides the optimal pulling angle.

What tools do I need for installation?

You can complete the installation with basic hand tools like wrenches and sockets. An impact wrench can speed up the process but isn't required.

What should I do if I can't reach behind the frame?

Use the bolt fisher tool provided by Torklift. This tool helps you position bolts and washers in tight spaces, particularly on the driver's side where the fuel tank may limit access.

How do I know if my box has been tampered with?

Check for the white security label that covers all three flaps of the box. This label includes the packaging date, packager number, and box weight. If it appears broken or the box looks opened, contact your dealer immediately.

Where can I buy Torklift tie downs?

Torklift products are available through over 2,500 dealers in the US, Canada, Japan, Europe, and Australia. Most dealers can get them to you overnight, even if they don't stock them on-site.

How do I register my lifetime warranty?

Register at torklift.com/warranty, call Torklift directly, email [email protected], or mail in the registration card found in your inspection manual.

How do I maintain my tie downs?

Use the Torklift finishing kit, which includes foam inserts and caps. Insert the foam into the receiver tube to keep out mud and debris, protecting the interior of your tie downs.

What if I need help during installation?

Call 1-800-246-8132 for live technical support. Torklift always has knowledgeable staff available to help you through any installation challenges.