Understanding Pickup Camper Tiedowns: A Beginner's Guide

Pickup camper tiedowns are anchor points that secure a truck camper to a truck. They are typically mounted in sets of four, two at the front and two at the back of the truck bed. Tiedowns can be bed-mounted, frame-mounted, or bumper-mounted, with frame-mounted tiedowns considered the best option as they bolt directly to the frame, which is the strongest part of the truck.

Tie-downs are anchor points for connecting the camper to the truck

There are several types of tie-downs:

• Truck bed-mounted tie-downs attach to the sheet metal of the truck bed using metal plates bolted to the front of the bed or metal clamps that rest over the rails of the truck bed. The clamp versions are removable, making them ideal for occasional use. Torklift offers bed-mounted tie-downs that become part of the truck foundation, preventing damage to the camper.
• Frame-mounted tie-downs bolt directly to the truck frame, the strongest part of the truck. This lower connection point improves stability and handling and is recommended for full-height, slide-in campers. Frame-mounted tie-downs provide a stronger base compared to bed-mounted tie-downs, which can cause flexing, cracking, and exterior rust on the truck bed. Torklift's TRUE Frame-Mounted Camper Tie Downs are the only truck camper tie-downs that bolt directly to the frame, ensuring the safest and strongest connection.
• Bumper-mounted tie-downs secure the camper to the truck's bumper. However, bumpers are not as strong as the truck frame or bed, and using this type of tie-down for a heavy camper or on bumpy roads can lead to bumper damage.
• Flatbed truck campers may require a custom or DIY solution for tie-downs, as most flatbeds are structural and can accommodate direct connections.

Overall, frame-mounted tie-downs are generally considered the best choice for securing a truck camper, especially on rough roads and in high winds, due to their robust base and improved weight distribution.

Turnbuckles connect the camper to the truck

Turnbuckles are the devices that connect the camper to the truck. They allow you to increase and decrease tension between two points of a tension system. This usually involves two screws inserted into either end of a small metal frame. As the frame is turned, the two ends are simultaneously screwed in or out to increase or decrease the length.

When talking about truck campers, the term "turnbuckles" refers to the tension mechanism that secures the camper to the tie-downs. Turnbuckles connect to a mounting bracket on the camper on one end and, depending on the turnbuckle style, attach to the tie-down in a temporary or more permanent way. Once attached, the tension can be tightened to the appropriate amount.

Turnbuckles range from basic to advanced versions with tension indicators or easy on/off levers. The specific truck and camper, as well as your budget, can help dictate the right turnbuckles for you.

Your truck may require a specific variety, so it is also crucial to check with the manufacturer before buying. It is also crucial to have the correct size for your tie-downs. A bed-mounted tie-down will require a very different size turnbuckle than a frame-mounted one.

To connect your turnbuckles, you may find that some part of your truck (like a fender on a dually) is in the way. To fix this problem, install a camper anchor relocation kit, which will change the mounting point on your camper and allow you to hook up your turnbuckle.

Basic turnbuckles must be adjusted each time you put them on, so if you need to take off the turnbuckle (to reach your gas cap, for example), you'll have to twist the pieces back together and readjust them to get the proper tension.

Turnbuckles with tension indicators make it easy to get the correct amount of torque. Most camper manufacturers recommend that turnbuckles be tightened to 300 ft-lbs. Overtightening can put too much stress on your camper's anchor points or on your truck's tie-downs, resulting in damage. Like basic turnbuckles, these types must be loosened to be removed and readjusted when reinstalled.

Lever-action turnbuckles with tension indicators are the easiest to install and remove. Just pull the handle up to loosen the turnbuckle for fast, simple removal, perfect if it blocks your gas cap. To reattach the turnbuckle, push the handle down again. These turnbuckles are spring-loaded to provide shock protection for your rig, and they have visible tension indicators so that you can easily tighten them to the correct torque. The tension on lever-action turnbuckles with tension indicators, such as the Torklift FastGun turnbuckles, only needs to be set once. Unlike standard turnbuckles without handles, these turnbuckles can be easily locked for extra security. You can purchase these turnbuckles with locks, or you can buy the locks separately.

Frame-mounted tie-downs are the strongest

Frame-mounted tie-downs offer improved handling and stability for your vehicle. They help distribute the weight of the camper more evenly, resulting in a more balanced and secure rig. This is especially important for full-height, slide-in campers, as it prevents the setup from becoming too top-heavy.

Another advantage of frame-mounted tie-downs is their customisability. They can be custom-fit to specific vehicles, bolting directly to the truck's frame at the front and either the frame or hitch at the rear. This ensures a perfect fit for your truck, maximising stability and security.

TorkLift is a well-known brand that offers frame-mounted tie-downs. Their tie-downs consist of two parts: a bracket that attaches to the vehicle and a removable insert that slips into the bracket. This design allows for easy installation and removal, with the insert held in place by a pin and clip. When the insert is removed, the bracket remains discreetly tucked away under the truck, maintaining its sleek appearance.

Frame-mounted tie-downs are the recommended choice for securing a truck camper, especially when travelling on rough roads or in high winds. They provide a robust base, ensuring your camper remains firmly attached to your truck, keeping you and your family safe during your adventures.

Bed-mounted tie-downs are bolted or clamped

Bed-mounted tie-downs are a common choice for securing a truck camper. They are typically attached to the truck bed rails or, in some cases, the front wall of the truck bed. These tie-downs provide a stable and secure connection, ensuring that the camper remains firmly in place during transport.

There are two main types of bed-mounted tie-downs: bolt-on and clamp-on. Bolt-on tie-downs are bolted through the side of the truck bed, while clamp-on tie-downs are clamped onto the rails. The bolt-on variety is more permanent, requiring drilling and bolts to secure them in place. On the other hand, clamp-on tie-downs are removable and ideal for occasional use. They often come with neoprene pads to prevent damage to the truck's paint.

While bed-mounted tie-downs are a popular option, it's important to consider the potential drawbacks. The thin sheet metal of truck beds may not provide sufficient strength for bed-mounted tie-downs, leading to flexing, cracking, and exterior rust over time. This can result in additional body cracking and paint damage. To avoid these issues, it is recommended to consider frame-mounted tie-downs, which attach to the stronger truck frame instead.

When choosing bed-mounted tie-downs, it's crucial to select a set that matches your truck's make and model. This ensures a proper fit and secure attachment. Additionally, consider the frequency of use and the level of permanence desired. For occasional use, clamp-on tie-downs offer the advantage of being easily removable, while bolt-on tie-downs provide a more permanent solution.

By following the manufacturer's instructions and selecting the appropriate type of bed-mounted tie-downs, you can securely attach your truck camper and enjoy safe and enjoyable camping trips.

Bumper-mounted tie-downs are not recommended

Bumper-mounted tie-downs are also not ideal because they are only located at the rear of the camper. This means that you will need to use either bed-mounted or frame-mounted tie-downs for the front of the camper, which can create a mixed system that may not be as secure.

A mixed system can also be problematic because it can cause the camper to shift to one end, which can loosen the turnbuckles. This can be dangerous as it could lead to the camper becoming detached.

In addition, bumper-mounted tie-downs can be unsightly and may not be compatible with all truck models. They may also require drilling, which can be a hassle and may void your truck's warranty.

For these reasons, it is generally recommended to use frame-mounted tie-downs, which provide the strongest base for securing a truck camper. Frame-mounted tie-downs bolt directly to the truck frame, which is the strongest part of the truck. This lower connection point adds stability and improves handling, making it the safest option for securing a truck camper.

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