Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums

Ford F-150/F-250: How to Install Tie Down Anchors

In order to secure the load on the back of your Ford F-150 or Super Duty's bed properly, you need to install tie down anchors.

By Tad Brunton - October 24, 2014

This article applies for the Ford F-150 (2004-2014), and the F-250, F-350 Super Duty (2005-2014).

Tie down anchors help you properly secure the load on the back of your Ford F-150 or Super Duty. Tie down anchors are also called bull ring anchor points and cargo cleats. You can install adjustable tie down tracks as well, which helps you move the anchors back and fourth depending on where you need them to be. Some truck owners like cargo nets, which is a net that goes over the cargo, and tie down to your tie down anchors to secure the load (Figure 4). You need at least 4 anchors to securely tie down your load. However, you may need to install more depending on the type of load you carry, or depending on how secured you want the load to be.

  • Figure 1. Tie down anchor.
  • Figure 2. Tie down anchor.
  • Figure 3. Adjustable tie down.
  • Figure 4. Cargo net.

Material

  • Tie down anchors with bolts and nuts
  • Drill motor and appropriate drill bits
  • Ratchet set
  • Adjustable Wrench
  • Phillips and slot Screwdrivers

Step 1 - Choose a location

Choose a location to install your tie down anchors in the bed of your truck. The most recommended locations for tie downs are the locations shown below. You can add more either between the 4 shown, or you can add some anchors on the inside of the truck bed. It depends on the type of load you haul. For example, if you haul large heavy items, you can only have 4 anchors may be enough to secure it properly. If you haul smaller. lighter items, you may need more anchors in order to completely immobilize it.

Figure 5. Choose a location for your tie downs.

Step 2 - Mark the drill holes on the rail or inside bed

Drill the appropriate size hole. Always make sure you are not drilling into an electrical wire or fluid hose. You can look down through the holes in the rails to make sure there are no obstacles.

Figure 6. Mark and drill holes for tie downs.

Step 3 - Place tie down over holes and insert bolts

Use a screwdriver or adjustable wrench to tighten the tie down anchor's bolts.

Figure 6. Bolt the new tie downs.

Pro Tip

Most tie downs, when installed according to the instructions, can hold down well over a thousand pounds of weight.

Featured Video: How to Install Tie Downs

Featured Video: How to Install Tie Down Tracks

Related Discussion