1998 F150 XLT 6.5' Flareside Custom anchor point/tie downs dilemma
 

Well, I got a good deal on a 1998 F150 XLT extended cab, 6.5' flareside (stepside) bed pickup. I bought the truck to use as a truck meaning I need to haul stuff in it.
I had not had a stepside since the 70's and was very disappointed when I finally got to looking at my new/old truck in more detail. Fiberglass fenders over a metal box. No stake pockets, long plastic rail caps that snap into the fiberglass.

The 4 low mounted anchor points inside the bed are OK but are somewhat limiting, especially if you are hauling tall items. I need some rail-top or just inside the top of the rail anchor point options.

I have been searching all over the web for a perfect solution. Maybe I just haven't been searching long enough. I just can't believe that nobody offers a good aftermarket solution made specifically for this truck. There had to been more than just a few made and you would think one or two of them were actually used for hauling a variety of items.

Before I start cutting plastic and drilling holes all over the place, I would appreciate all suggestions on high mount anchor point tie-downs. How did you solve this problem? Pictures would be great too.

Thanks in advance!

I took two of a 3/8 inch stainless eye bolt and drilled a hole down from the top, thru the plastic top rail, thru the steel rail and put a big washer and nut under the rail. They are mounted about 12 inches from the cab wall........... this will allow me to have high up tie points when hauling a stove, refrig, etc.

Tractor supply sells a tie down track that mounts under the rails on the side walls. The tie down points are adjustable in the track.

Been all through the Tractor Supply web site, can't find it. Do you have a link or specific item?

You are right. I looked and did not see them. I did a search and found them online. Here is a link. http://r.search.yahoo.com/_ylt=AwrB8...yYY_X9rEKIJhs-

This looks better than what I saw at tractor supply.

E Track might work for bed box?
 

I have had good experiences using the "E-Track" type components. I like the availability, (Harbor Freight, Northern Tool, etc...), and there are a lot of choices for the tracking, (horizontal, vertical, single slot, multi-slot by length...) and anchor types, (rings, ratchet strap, hooks, etc...).
I have found that most E-Track stuff is reasonably priced, highly versatile, and up to heavy-duty loads.

Sorry if this sounds like a sales pitch...not my intention, I just thought it might be a good solution to consider.
For reference, here are some links to product pictures and explanations...

Accesories Trailers | E Track | Straps | Van Trailer

https://www.google.com/search?q=e+tr...bih=1004&dpr=2

Hope you find what you need,

Cheers
:-X22

PROBLEM SOLVED!

I just installed 4 of the 5" Core Trax tie downs.

I cut out spaces for them on the inside edge of the plastic rail caps with an oscillating tool. Cut a piece of 1 x 1/8" aluminum for backing behind the bed steel instead of the supplied round washers. I figured that would provide better support. Installed with supplied 1/4" screws and locking nuts.

Decided to leave the center indentions empty for now, but I do have the 5" Core Trax to put there if I want to later.

Looks pretty nice and unobtrusive. Satisfied so far.