Need to install anchors in new truck

[CanadaGeese2017]

Hi folks,

We are needing to intall our camper (2006 Hawk) on a new-to-us truck. I've looked through the topics but can't see info on truck bed preparation, what type of anchors are prefereable/optimal for the turnbuckles, where, exacly, to put the anchors/drill the holes in the box bed, and the best way to reinforce the backing.

Our previous truck functioned beautifully with "farmer fix" eyebolts drilled through and bolted through the box bed. Since we have been forced to replace the truck, we thought to optimize installation in the new one. Before I speak directly to Four Wheel, I thought I'd ask here.

Our new truck is a 2013 RAM 1500 Laramie Longhorn crewcab, 6'4" box, spray-in liner.

Thank you!
Anne

 

[PaulT]

This video on FWC support website should get you started.
https://fourwheelcampers.com/video/how-to-prepare-your-truck-for-our-slide-in-campers/

Paul

 

[Vic Harder]

Anne, try these videos:
Four Wheel Pop-up Campers -- Basic Camper Installation Details - YouTube

Eye Bolt Installation -- Four Wheel Pop-up Campers - YouTube

If you can find "forged" eyebolts that would be good... Also the standard turnbuckles can be troublesome, coming loose and all that. Some folks have used zip ties to keep them from turning and coming loose.

Ask more questions if this all seems like greek....

 

[CanadaGeese2017]

Thank you! Wiil be following up on these...

And we're in Calgary, too, Vic. I was planning to go to Truck Outfitters for parts and installation (of the eyebolts, wiring harness, etc, not the camper...we're pretty good at that ;-)) .Thoughts?

 

[Vic Harder]

Have not been to Truck Outfitters. I do all my own work, mostly. Princess Auto is good for the eyebolts. You will need some pieces of 1/4" alum plate too, as a backing under the truck bed so that the bed doesn't get stressed or cracked.

I'd be glad to show you my truck/camper and help out with most anything if I am not working at the time!

Vic

 

[CanadaGeese2017]

Thank you so much for the offer! We would LOVE to see your setup and get some advice, once we have our new truck. That should happen in the next week or two. Is there a best way to contact you?

Anne

 

[achiral]

A few excerpts from when we were doing the anchor installs:
- 6" pull forward and rear between eyebolts and camper brackets (Hawk), and angle the the eyebolts towards the direction of pull.
- This may not be practicable for Grandby, so 4-4 1/2" is fine.
- Put eyebolts as close to the bed sidewall as feasible
- 3/8" forged eyebolts, and 1.5" diameter fender washers
- if needed for distance, add quicklinks to the camper-side eyebolts

And a few parts that may be useful (all from McMaster Carr). Hopefully these are still the same PNs:
- SS washers, 1.5" fender: 91525A140
- Locknuts: 97135A230
- Al bar stock for underbed stability and load: 8975K71
- Reinforced rubber sheet for between bar stock and bed (probably not needed): 8609K11
- Load bearing quick links: 8947T18
- Eyebolts: 3014T471
- Load bearing forged turnbuckles (10x better than the drawn rod ones!): 2997T52

 

[CanadaGeese2017]

Thanks, Achiral...this is awesome info!