Hi folks,

I came here out of desperation. I could probably put something together, but I want something that is either available or something that is proven. It would be nice if it looked decent, too.

I have a 2008 F-250 4X4. My old 1990 F-250 had three inserts, on each side, that would accept a 2"X4". When I popped the plastic cover on my 2008 there is now a 2"X2" hole (even though the cover is still a 2"X4" piece). I heat with wood that I cut and haul, so I need side rails that top out at about the height of the cab. I can attach the horizontal boards when I find out what to use in the 2"X2" holes provided.

I looked in the manual and found nothing. I searched online and found nothing. I called the dealer and service had no clue. They transferred me to the body shop and both people there were lost. Ford goes to the trouble of making six slots in their beds for a reason. They used to be for work. Are they just to dress up the truck with chrome rails these days?

They place holes through the outer and inner wall of all six slots. You can't get to the back of the inner wall with a nut, so what's the hole for? Is there a special quick connect for it?

I considered using quality 2"X2" hardwood, but I will not be responsible for an accident and don't trust three 2"X2"s to hold a full load on both sides. The slots are 6" deep, so I could get some 2"X2" galvanized with pre-drilled holes. Still can't figure out how to secure them, but could keep them in the bed until I load and then the weight of the wood would secure the rails.

Is there a commercial solution to this problem, or am I starting a project? If it's a project, is there a parts list anywhere?

If I get a bunch of links to stuff that I should have found, I apologize and will be suitably embarrassed.

Thanks,
Mark