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How to install camper tie downs

How to install camper tie downs

Camper Tie Downs are a critical component to your truck camper adventure. Without TRUE Frame Mounted Tie Downs, you are either compromising the truck bed or not using proper gear for your truck camper set-up. If you have made it to this blog, you are either learning about Torklift Tie Downs for the first time or are a lifetime customer with new camper tie downs for your truck. Either way, you have made it to the right spot.

TRUE Frame Mounted Tie Downs

Torklift Tie Downs are manufactured to mount to the frame of your truck compared to alternative brands that mount to the bed or bumper. By mounting to the frame, you are mounting to the strongest part of your truck and are making sure your truck camper will be sturdy for the long haul.

Torklift TRUE Frame Mounted Tie Downs are manufactured in Steel Tie Downs and Talon Stainless Steel Tie Downs. Depending on where you live, Talon Stainless Steel Tie Downs may be for you. Learn more about the Talon Tie Downs here.

How to install Torklift Truck Camper Tie Downs

Check your vehicle fitment

Before you can get started with installing your camper tie downs, you must determine what part number will fit your truck. Every Torklift Tie Down is manufactured to specifically fit to the frame of your truck without modification and due to this the fitment is very vehicle specific.

Make sure to use our Find Your Fit Guide located on our website to determine the part numbers that you need. If you need further assistance, our customer service and tech support team is available Monday-Friday 8:30 am – 5 pm PST at 800-246-8132.

When confirming your fit, you will also be shown additional products that are offered for your vehicle such as the Torklift Stableloads® which is a suspension upgrade. Make sure to take a look at all the fitment options for the optimal truck camper experience.

 Install your Torklift tie downs

install tiedowns2

Once you have determined the best fitment for your vehicle, ordered your tie downs, and received them in the mail or from a local dealer, it is now time to get them installed. Torklift manufactures their camper tie downs to be as DIY as possible to allow for little to no modifications and the ability to install at home if you choose. If you would prefer to have a certified installer install the products for you, you can locate a dealer near you at our where to buy section of our website.

If you have chosen to install the Torklift Tie Downs at the comfort of your home, the hardware, bolt kit and instructions are provided in your new tie down kit box. Once the receiver tubes are bolted on to the frame of your truck, the next step is to slide the tie down insert into the receiver tubes.

If you are needing more assistance, our team is happy to assist in talking you through the installation. We also have many installation videos that can be watched here

Pair the tie downs with Torklift Original FastGuns

Original FastGuns and truck camper tie downs

The Torklift FastGun is the ultimate turnbuckle system and allows for the ability to easily disconnect the tie downs with ease when ready to remove your truck camper from your truck. An additional plus to this system is the ability to set the tension once and often not needing to set them again for your next trip.

Torklift also offers additional turnbuckle systems such as the Springload XL and Basic Springload. Head here to learn which turnbuckles are right for you

Have further Questions?

If you have further questions on truck camper tie downs and turnbuckles maintenance, our team is ready to take your call or answer your email. We are open Monday – Friday 8:30 am PST to 5 pm PST, excluding holidays. You can contact our team by calling 800-246-8132 or emailing support@torklift.com.

Looking for Torklift camper tie downs for sale? Find a dealer in your area or online!

Where to Buy

install tiedowns4

 

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What products do you need to start truck camping

If you are new to truck camping and not sure where to start or what you need, keep reading to learn more about the products that you need to start your great truck camping experience.

To get started, you must think about the experience you are wanting. Are you looking to use your camper for multiple trips a year? Are you looking to tow behind your camper to bring your boat with you or horse trailer? There are many products available to make your travel experience more enjoyable.

TRUE Frame Mounted Camper Tie Downs

Torklift Camper Tie Downs attach to the frame of the truck at four points that are bolted directly to the truck frame. By attaching to the frame, you are attaching the truck camper to the strongest part of the truck which also prevents bed damage where alternative brands attach.

What products do you need to start truck camping

As the camper tie downs are attached to the truck frame and bolt-on installation, they are also very vehicle specific. To determine your fitment, click here

Torklift FastGun Turnbuckles

Torklift FastGun Turnbuckles

The Torklift Original FastGun is a quick-disconnect truck camper turnbuckle which allows ease of use when installing and removing. Each set-up also has tension indicators to determine the perfect tension of the system.

Not sure if you are interested in the FastGun turnbuckles quite yet? Torklift offers a basic springload kit and Springload XL. Learn more about the Good, Better, Best systems here

StableLoad® Suspension Stabilizer

StableLoad Suspension Stabilizer

When someone starts truck camping for the first time, they may not be aware of what adding weight to the bed of a truck can do to the ride. It often makes the ride uneasy, unstable, and uncomfortable. By adding the StableLoad® suspension system to your truck, you are able to combat the many common truck camper suspension items like sway, body roll, porpoising, and more.

With the Quick-Disconnect lower StableLoad® suspension upgrades installed, you are able to disengage the product when you do not have a heavy load in the back of your truck. This is crucial in allowing your truck to ride comfortably when not carrying the truck camper. Alternative suspension upgrades do not have this feature and due to that, the alternative products give a stiff ride.

Super Hitch® and SuperTruss

If you are someone that will be towing behind your truck camper, you will need an extension in order to reach your hitch on the truck. We recommend the Torklift Super Hitch® and SuperTruss combo.

Super Hitch and SuperTruss

The Super Hitch® is offered in three different fitments:

  • Super Hitch® Hero 15K receiver – 15,000 lbs pull, 1,500 lbs tongue*
  • Super Hitch® Original 20K receiver – 20,000 lbs pull, 2,000 lbs tongue*
  • Super Hitch® Magnum 30K receiver – 30,000 lbs pull, 3,000 lbs tongue*

 *When used with weight distribution.

The Super Hitch® Magnum 30K receiver is the biggest and best when it comes to the Torklift Super Hitch® line.

SUPER HITCH® Magnum 30k Features

  • SUPER HITCH® 30K frame mounted receiver rated up to 30,000 lbs pull and 3,000 lbs tongue weight with weight distribution (20,000 lbs pull and 2,500 lbs tongue weight carrying) in either the upper or lower receivers (When used without SuperTruss extension). Extension towing capacity up to 12,000 lbs. with 48” SUPER HITCH® SuperTruss receiver extension†
  • SuperTruss Extensions available in 8 different lengths from 21” to 48” (Extensions available to 60") (Sold Separately)
  • Both the SUPER HITCH® Magnum 30K frame mount receiver and the SuperTruss receiver extensions use Industry standard 2” x 2” ballmounts
  • Eliminates the need for two ballmounts ††
  • Specific Torklift tie down fits are available for the SUPER HITCH® Outlaw Series
  • Legendary Lifetime Warranty
  • Proudly made in the USA

 The SuperTruss is to be used in conjunction with the Super Hitch®. This is a product that is unable to be used on a different hitch system due to the dual receiver design for added security and stability.

Have further Questions?

If you have further questions on truck camper tie downs and turnbuckles maintenance, our team is ready to take your call or answer your email. We are open Monday – Friday 8:30 am PST to 5 pm PST, excluding holidays. You can contact our team by calling 800-246-8132 or emailing support@torklift.com.

Looking for Torklift camper tie downs for sale? Find a dealer in your area or online!

Where to Buy

 Truck Camping

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Why upgrading to Talon Tie Downs is Right for you

Why upgrading to Talon Tie Downs is Right for you

Camper Tie Downs are a necessity when it comes to having a truck camper. When doing your research on what Tie Downs to use, you have inevitably fallen on to the Torklift website and learned about the TRUE Frame Mounted Tie Downs. One thing you may have not learned about as of yet is the Talon Tie Down option that Torklift Offers.

Talon Camper Tie Downs

Front and Rear Talon Camper Tie Downs

The Talon Tie Downs are designed just like the Steel Tie Downs so that they bolt-on directly to your truck frame, the strongest part of your truck. Since the frame is the strongest part of the truck, you can avoid damaging your truck bed or bumper.

As they are frame mounted, they are not one size fits all. The camper tie downs are very vehicle specific. Find your fit here

Talon Camper Tie Downs Features

  • Rust free corrosion protection for life†
  • Dramatic improvement with vehicle handling and stability and is the safest way to haul a truck camper (Prevents vehicle sway and camper movement in all directions)
  • Strength and safety for stress-free truck camper hauling and camping, and the best ride quality in the industry
  • Mounts using independent tie down points that bolt directly to the truck frame
  • Custom fit to specific truck makes and models to allow for the ultimate safety and confidence
  • Applications for Talon tie downs including applications of best-selling Ford, Chevy and Dodge truck models
  • Tie down receiver tube and tie down insert are each 100% military grade aluminum and stainless steel
  • Fast, 100% no-drill installations
  • No loss of ground clearance perfect for off-road truck camping
  • Hidden when not in use to return your truck to its original look
  • Finishing Kit included to protect tie downs from effects of road debris
  • Lockable with Tie Down Locks

 Why you need Talon Camper Tie Downs

Talon Aluminum Camper Tie Downs

The Torklift Talon Tie Downs are made from military grade aluminum that is also lightweight. The camper tie downs are also rust free and have a corrosion protection to handle the toughest of climates and terrain. If you are dealing with harsh chemicals and salts on the road for the winter or on the coast taking your boat out into the water, this is the product for you.

The Talon Camper Tie Downs are backed by our Legendary Lifetime Warranty and made in the USA.

Have further Questions?

If you have further questions on truck camper tie downs and turnbuckles maintenance, our team is ready to take your call or answer your email. We are open Monday – Friday 8:30 am PST to 5 pm PST, excluding holidays. You can contact our team by calling 800-246-8132 or emailing support@torklift.com.

Looking for Torklift camper tie downs for sale? Find a dealer in your area or online!

Where to Buy

 

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How to choose the best truck for your truck camper

How to choose the best truck for your truck camper

You’ve made the big decision to take your camping adventures off-grid: Congratulations! Getting set up for a truck camper and making the decision on which camper with your truck can seem tricky, but it doesn’t have to be! As long as you follow these few details, you’ll be set up and ready to get out and go in no time.

What came first: the truck or the camper?

How to choose the best truck for your truck camperOne saying we hear frequently is “Don’t buy the carriage before the horse”. It is very important to evaluate the truck that you have or the truck that you plan on hauling your camper to be sure that it will stand up to needs of your camper. Nothing is worse than forking out the cash for a beautiful, luxurious truck camper just to find out that your truck can’t haul it. There are multiple factors you will want to take into account when checking compatibility of your truck and truck camper.

Payload

Above all, you will want to make certain that your Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is within limits and you have enough payload to support your camper. The GVWR is the maximum total safe weight on your vehicle. This weight is assigned by the Department of Transportation and can be found on the manufacturer sticker on the inside of your vehicle or in your owner’s manual.

To determine the amount of payload you available, go to a certified weight station to obtain vehicle weight, subtract this from your GVWR to identify how much payload capacity you have available for your truck camper. Tip: Don’t forget to take into account the weight of any cargo, for example, passengers, fuel, supplies, etc. If your rig is overloaded, you may have to take on the expense of changing campers or trucks.

Tie Down Compatibility

besttruck3If you want to haul a truck camper, having truck camper tie downs and spring-loaded turnbuckles is a necessity. To attach your camper to your truck, we recommend our TRUE Frame-Mounted Camper Tie Downs. These camper tie downs are designed to bolt onto the strongest point of your truck: the frame. Since our parts are bolt on, part numbers are custom fit based on the year, make, and model of the vehicle. To verify fitment for the truck you have in mind, check your fitment here.

The Torklift TRUE Frame-Mounted Tie Downs must be paired with a spring-loaded turnbuckle. Take a look at our best-selling Original FastGun turnbuckle here.

Original FastGun Turnbuckles

Truck Design

besttruck5Cab Size

Most truck campers are designed for extended or crew cab trucks. It is possible that a truck camper will fit on a regular cab, but there is a possibility that the cab over portion of the camper will limit visibility from a driver’s standpoint.

Four-Wheel Drive

Truck campers are designed to go anywhere at any time. With that being said, those who camp in truck campers typically will spend a lot of time off grid. If you plan on being off road, you need four-wheel drive to combat rough or rugged terrain that is common for truck campers.

To dually or not to dually

The choice of single rear wheel compared to dual rear wheel comes down to the fully-loaded wet weight of the truck camper. This would include the dry weight of the camper plus any additional cargo in the camper. Dual rear wheel trucks have a higher payload capacity due to the rear axle being wider so they can accommodate more weight than the single rear wheel trucks. 

If you have further questions about choosing the best truck for your truck camper set up, please give our support team a call at 800-246-8132 or email at support@torklift.com. Our tech support is available Monday – Friday from 8:30 am to 5 pm PST.

 

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How to load a truck camper

How to Load A Truck Camper

Your love of the outdoors and need for adventuring off-grid has led you to buy a truck camper. Once your truck is equipped with the proper equipment – including the Torklift TRUE Frame-mounted tie downs – it is important to know how to safely load your truck camper. It is common for folks to leave their truck camper loaded on their vehicle during their camping trips. Keep in mind, unloading your truck camper at the campsite gives you an added layer of flexibility by letting you take your truck places where it is not necessarily convenient to bring your camper along.

FastGun Wobble StopperIf you are worried about the safety of your camper when it is off-loaded, check out the FastGun Wobble Stopper camper stabilizer. These will stabilize your camper when it is not loaded and secure it while you are away.

Since you need to reverse your truck into your camper, it will take some additional knowledge and attention to detail to be sure that your camper gets loaded with no damage to the truck camper or your vehicle. Follow these 3 simple steps to get your truck camper loaded up and on the road!

Step #1: Get prepped!

Before you get to loading your truck camper, you are going to want to make sure you have the appropriate preparation done so that loading goes as smoothly and as safely as possible! Follow these easy tips to make sure you are well-prepared to load your truck camper.

Make sure your bed is properly prepped and your parts are inspected.
We highly recommend adding a rubber bed mat to minimize the movement of the truck camper in the bed of the truck. Never install your truck camper on top of a plastic bed liner or hard surface spray-in bed liners. Installing your truck camper on top of a plastic liner can result in excessive vertical truck camper movement that can result in truck bed damage and/or camper damage.

  • Make sure your bed is properly prepped and your parts are inspected. We highly recommend adding a rubber bed mat to minimize the movement of the truck camper in the bed of the truck. Never install your truck camper on top of a plastic bed liner or hard surface spray-in bed liners. Installing your truck camper on top of a plastic liner can result in excessive vertical truck camper movement that can result in truck bed damage and/or camper damage.
  • Proper maintenance of your tie downs and turnbuckles is required to guarantee the life of your products. Before installing your truck camper, be sure your Torklift camper tie down inserts are pinned in place and your spring-loaded turnbuckles are properly tensioned.
  • Phone a friend. Ask a buddy to keep an eye on the truck and camper from the rear. This will ensure that you have a second pair of eyes to guide you in loading your truck camper and deplete the risk of damage to your truck and camper set up.
  • Use camper jacks to set camper to appropriate height. This may take some trial and error but setting your camper jacks to the right height will help you avoid scraping or scratching your truck camper set up.
  • Engage your Torklift StableLoad Suspension. One of the great perks of being equipped with StableLoads is that you can engage or disengage them depending on if you have a load in the truck or not. Before loading your truck camper, be sure to engage the StableLoads to prepare for the additional load being added to the truck bed.

StableLoad Suspension Stabilizer

Step #2: Get loaded up!

howload4

Now we’re ready for the fun part – loading your truck camper! Now that your truck and camper are all prepped, it’s time to back your truck in and get your camper loaded. Here are some quick tips to help with getting the camper loaded in one shot!

  • Store your camper on level ground. One of the most important tips to loading up your camper is to be conscious of storing your truck camper on level ground so that it is easier to load the camper back in once the time comes.
  • Center your truck camper. Position yourself so that your truck is centered with the truck camper. Then all you have to do is back up in a straight line. This is the perfect time to utilize your spotter so you can make adjustments to your path as needed.
  • Install the Torklift International Camper Bumper Kit. The Camper Bumper Kit fits all campers and is designed to establish a rubber barrier between your truck camper and the cab of your truck. This protects both your truck and camper from damage.

Camper Bumper Kit

Step #3: Get going!

Once you have successfully loaded your truck camper into the bed of your truck, be sure to attach your truck camper anchor points to your Torklift TRUE Frame-mounted tie downs using a spring-loaded turnbuckle. We recommend our best-selling Original FastGuns that are equipped with a quick disconnect handle for ease of use.

Now that your truck camper is loaded and tied down, you are ready to hit the road!

If you have further questions about your Torklift tie down and turnbuckle set up or how to install, please contact us by phone at 800-246-8132 or by email at support@torklift.com. Our customer service team is available Monday – Friday from 8:30 am to 5 pm PST.

*For more details, call us at 800-246-8132.

 

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How to install your camper tie downs

Truck Camper Talon Tie Downs

In the market for a truck camper but not sure what you are getting yourself into? Already purchased a truck camper and not sure what to do next? To ensure the utmost safety of your vehicle, camper, and passengers, you will want to make sure you have the appropriate equipment required for hauling your truck camper. Torklift TRUE Frame Mounted Tie Downs are the only truck camper tie downs that bolt to the strongest point of your truck: the frame. Here are the four most important steps to installing your frame-mounted truck camper tie downs:

1. Check your fitment

The first step in getting your TRUE Frame Mounted Camper Tie Downs installed on your truck is to be sure you have appropriate parts for your vehicle. Each Torklift camper tie down kit is custom designed to perfectly fit the frame of your truck. With that being said, each truck camper tie down kit is extremely specific to the vehicles year, make, model, etc. Be sure to use our Find Your Fit Guide to locate the correct part numbers or give our tech support team a call at 800-246-8132 to confirm the fitment.

Once you confirm your fitment, you may be wondering which style of camper tie down will best suit your truck – the original steel or the aluminum Talon tie downs. The Talon camper tie downs are crafted out of high impact powder coated, lightweight military grade aluminum alloy and stainless steel. The Talon tie downs are designed to handle in the toughest climates and terrain. We highly recommend upgrading to Talon camper tie downs if you live or travel in areas with high levels of salt on the roads or if you tow a boat and offload it into salty water. Aside from our Legendary Lifetime Warranty, Torklift Talon Tie Downs also come with rust-free corrosion protection for life.*

2. Bolt on your tie downs

Once you have your correct fitment and have selected the style that would best suit your needs, it is time to install your truck camper tie downs. Torklift tie down kits feature DIY designs that are 100% no-drill because our engineers utilize factory pre-drilled holes that are already in your truck frame for ease of installation. Some modification may be required for vehicles older than 2001. Each TRUE Frame Mounted Tie Down kit comes with all the hardware needed for installation and includes detailed instructions that include a parts inventory and step-by-step instructions to guide you through the installation. Once the receiver tubes are bolted on to the frame of your truck, the tie down inserts slide in and you’re done!

3. Make sure you pair your TRUE Frame Mounted Tie Downs with spring-loaded turnbuckles

With Torklift TRUE Frame Mounted Tie Downs you will want to be sure to tie down your camper using spring-loaded turnbuckles. The use of a spring-loaded turnbuckle protects the truck camper anchor points and tie downs from damage as well as protects the cargo and passengers in the vehicle. We offer a variety of truck camper turnbuckles – check out our best selling Original FastGuns.

4. Keep your equipment safe

Once your Torklift camper tie downs and spring-loaded turnbuckles are installed, your truck camper is ready to go and you are ready to hit the road! The last thing you want to worry about on your off-grid adventures is the safety of your equipment. To deter thieves, makes sure to add Tie Down Locks and FastGun Locks to your truck camper set up.

If you have further questions about your Torklift tie down and turnbuckle set up or how to install, please contact us by phone at 800-246-8132 or by email at support@torklift.com. Our customer service team is available Monday – Friday from 8:30 am to 5 pm PST.

*For more details, call us at 800-246-8132.

 

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Can you tow a trailer with a Truck Camper?

trailer1

There are generally two reasons someone gets a truck bed camper.
1.) So they can go horse camping or boat camping which means towing your horse trailer or boat trailer behind your camper
OR
2.) Wanting the ability to go off grid into anywhere – because there are just places you can’t go with a fifth wheel or other large towables

Where do you start?

Before you start looking into what products you need, you have a few things to consider. The main thing that needs to be looked at before you begin is what you are wanting to tow and the weight associated as well as what your truck is rated to tow and haul.

Can I increase the towing capacity on my truck?

No aftermarket products you purchase will be able to increase your truck’s towing ratings. Let us repeat: No aftermarket products will increase your towing capacity beyond what your truck’s original rating from the manufacturer is. Products that make that claim are hogwash. If possible, we recommend determining what you would like to tow before you purchase your truck and then purchase a truck capable of those towing needs OR learn what your truck can tow and match yourself with a trailer within those limits.

How do I figure out how much I can tow?

It is critical to know your GVWR or Gross Vehicle Weight Rating to be able to tow safely and within legal limits. This term describes the total weight carrying capacity of your truck. A common mistake is using the dry weight of your truck camper instead of the wet weight. The wet weight includes the weight of your truck camper once fully loaded (cargo, water, etc). These things can really add up so it is important to factor them in. There are many additional factors to determining what set-up you can use. Check out this great article by Truck Camper Magazine and Torklift that goes over factors that you need to consider before embarking on your truck camper or trailer adventure. 

trailer2

Truck Camper Tie Downs and Turnbuckles selection

The first items you will need to ensure you have would be truck camper tie downs and turnbuckles to hold your truck camper to your truck. We recommend our TRUE Frame Mounted Tie Downs for any sized truck camper. This will ensure that you are connecting your camper to the strongest portion of your truck (the frame) rather than the bed or bumper which is a thin sheet of aluminum.

Next up is a good truck camper turnbuckle system. The camper tie down turnbuckles are the portion of your set-up that connect the truck camper anchor points to the tie downs. There are several different truck camper tie down turnbuckle systems that we offer which include Torklift Original FastGun Turnbuckles, Springload XL Turnbuckles, and Basic Springload Turnbuckles. Not sure which turnbuckle system would be best for you? Click here to learn more about the Good, Better, and Best turnbuckle systems and which is best for you. 

Truck camper trailer hitch

As you can see from this photo, the customer is using Torklift TRUE Frame Mounted Tie Downs and Torklift Original FastGun turnbuckles.

Truck camper trailer hitch

Now that you have your truck camper tie downs and turnbuckles selected, the next item that you will need is a truck camper hitch and a truck camper hitch extension that will safely tow the trailer that you are looking to tow.

Torklift offers the SuperHitch Outlaw Series which offers three different hitches with ranging capacities of 15,000 lbs to 30,000 lbs pull when coupled with weight distribution. These high weight capacities are critical in ensuring that you are safely towing your load. But what if we told you that a high weight rating that at least matches the tow capacity of your truck so that you are not limited by the hitch is only the second most important factor with towing capacities? The first most important factor is making sure your truck camper hitch has an appropriate tongue weight rating.

What is tongue weight?

Tongue weight is the pressure of items and weight seated at the front of what you are towing and often times – this area tends to get over loaded. When using the Torklift SuperHitch Magnum combined with weight distribution, 3,000 pounds tongue weight can be achieved. Again – never tow or haul beyond the limits rated by your truck manufacturer. Not using a truck camper trailer hitch with the correct tongue weight is the most common cause of hitch failure. You don’t want to go there – it is incredibly dangerous. Torklift hitches feature the highest tongue weights available when used with weight distribution.

Truck Camper Hitch Extension

Truck camper hitch extension

The SuperTruss Extension is a dual receiver extension and comes in eight lengths from 21” to 60”. It only works with the SuperHitch Towing Series trailer hitches featured on the truck above. As you can see, there are two stacked receivers. The purpose for this design is to allow for the SuperTruss Extension to fit into each receiver at the same time. The SuperTruss Extension is a dual truss system – the only dual truss system available – designed for safety. Single truss extensions have a tendency to flex, bow and break under pressure. You will want a truck camper hitch extension when your truck camper hangs over the rear of your truck bed because you will need to have a way to bridge the truck camper hitch to your trailer tongue and the extension is that bridge.

SuperTruss Features

  • Spring-loaded design ensures a safe ride for your family and your truck camper
  • Protect your truck frame and camper anchor points from damage
  • Adjusts in minutes, built in spring tension indicators
  • High strength forged steel
  • Special oil tempered chrome silicon springs for maximum longevity
  • Legendary Lifetime Warranty
  • Proudly made in the USA

trailer5

 Have further Questions?

If you have further questions on truck camper tie downs and turnbuckles maintenance, our team is ready to take your call or answer your email. We are open Monday – Friday 8:30 am PST to 5 pm PST, excluding holidays. You can contact our team by calling 800-246-8132 or emailing support@torklift.com.

Looking for Torklift camper tie downs for sale? Find a dealer in your area or online!

Where to Buy

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Good, Better, Best: What Turnbuckles are best for you?

Good, Better, Best - What Turnbuckles are best for you?

When someone starts truck bed camping, a necessity is having gear that holds the camper to your truck: tie downs and turnbuckles. There are many options out there for camper tie down turnbuckles, but we will be highlighting the top 3 options for truck camper turnbuckles for your camper. Regardless of what you choose, you can’t go wrong!

Best: FastGun Turnbuckles

Are you looking for the best of the best?
Then you need to check out the Torklift FastGun system! The FastGun turnbuckle is a stainless steel quick disconnect turnbuckle so that no matter where you go, you can quickly remove your FastGun turnbuckles to offload your truck camper or maybe you just need to get access your gas tank with ease. They are also designed with two sizes so that no matter the tie down system you have (Torklift TRUE Frame Mounted Tie Down system or alternative brand bed mounted systems) the FastGun turnbuckles will work. A benefit to the FastGun turnbuckle is once you set your tension with the tension indicators you are done adjusting.

Original FastGun

Original FastGun Features

  • No. 1 selling patented quick disconnect truck camper turnbuckle in the world
  • Recommended by Lance Campers, Northern Lite, Northstar Campers, Lance Owners of America, Arctic Fox, Northwood Manufacturing, BigFoot Campers, Travel Lite and more
  • Original FastGun turnbuckles serve as the connection bridge between the truck camper tie down and the camper anchor point
  • Connects and disconnects in seconds - Quick release handle allows for easy tool-free adjustment
  • Adjust once and you’re done
  • You will especially love the quick disconnect handle if your turnbuckle is near your gas cap
  • Spring-loaded design ensures a safe ride for your family and your truck camper
  • This spring loaded truck camper turnbuckle prevents your truck camper anchor points from ripping out due to the constant fatigue that happens during regular travel because it acts as a shock absorber
  • Tension indicators determine proper tension to hold down truck camper while in use which prevents common wear and tear as well as ripped out anchor points
  • Only turnbuckle with spring tension indicators to ensure the pull down strength is within range of ALL truck camper manufacturer’s requirements to avoid camper damage
  • Composed of 100 percent aircraft grade aluminum and stainless steel featuring several different finishes to customize the look of your truck and camper
  • This stainless steel and aircraft grade aluminum truck camper turnbuckle does not rust – no more rust stains on you or your vehicle and never deal with degrading, swelling and deforming of your truck camper turnbuckle ever again
  • Available for frame-mounted or bed-mounted tie downs
  • Lockable to secure your truck camper (locks sold separately)
  • Legendary Lifetime Warranty
  • Proudly made in the USA

FastGun turnbuckles

Guess what? That’s not all! Not only do you have all these amazing features for your FastGun turnbuckles, you also have the option to choose between four different finishes so you can match your truck and camper. The color options include Snowstorm White, Revolver Grey, Polished Stainless Steel, and Chasm Black.

Better: Springload XL Turnbuckles

The next turnbuckle is the Springload XL Turnbuckle. This truck camper turnbuckle is only designed to be used with TRUE Frame Mounted Tie Downs. This product, like the FastGun turnbuckle, is a truck camper spring loaded turnbuckles system and has internal springs and spring tension indicators. A difference between the Springload XL and FastGun turnbuckles is the quick disconnect feature that allows you to easily remove your truck camper tie down turnbuckles system.

SpringLoad XL Turnbuckles

SpringLoad XL Features

  • High impact powder coated stainless steel
  • Reaching 35” to 45”
  • Spring tension indicators
  • Can be used with Derringer Handles
  • Legendary Lifetime Warranty
  • Proudly made in the USA

Good: Basic Springload Turnbuckles

Last but not least, is the Basic Springload turnbuckle. The kit includes two quicklinks, two spring-load canisters, two heavy duty steel turnbuckles, and chain.

Basic SpringLoad Turnbuckles

Basic SpringLoad Features

  • Spring-loaded design ensures a safe ride for your family and your truck camper
  • Protect your truck frame and camper anchor points from damage
  • Adjusts in minutes, built in spring tension indicators
  • High strength forged steel
  • Special oil tempered chrome silicon springs for maximum longevity
  • Legendary Lifetime Warranty
  • Proudly made in the USA

 Have further Questions?

If you have further questions on truck camper tie downs and turnbuckles maintenance, our team is ready to take your call or answer your email. We are open Monday – Friday 8:30 am PST to 5 pm PST, excluding holidays. You can contact our team by calling 800-246-8132 or emailing support@torklift.com.

Looking for Torklift camper tie downs for sale? Find a dealer in your area or online!

Where to Buy

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How to set up a truck camper

truckcamper3

Are you looking for a new camping adventure? Truck camping is the perfect way to get off the grid and get to places you’d never be able to make it to in a travel trailer. As a new truck camper, you may be wondering where to start. First thing is first, you will need to know how to set up a truck camper.

Make sure you have the right equipment

The most important thing to think about when tying down your camper trailer is the equipment you will need. The essentials that you will need are camper tie downs and spring-loaded turnbuckles.

Truck Camper Tie Downs

Your camper tie down is going to be the anchor for your turnbuckles to attach to and secure your truck camper. The Torklift TRUE frame-mounted™ camper tie down system bolts directly to the strongest point of your truck: the frame. Frame-mounted tie downs dramatically improve vehicle stability and are the safest way to haul a truck camper due to the reduction in sway and excess camper movement. Plus, the Torklift camper tie downs are specific to the year, make, and model of the truck – ensuring for customized fit. To find your personalized truck camper tie down fitment, visit our Find Your Fit page.  

FastGun Truck Camper Turnbuckles

Your other essential piece of equipment to ensure the safe hauling of your truck camper is your spring-loaded turnbuckle. Turnbuckles serve as the bridge between your truck camper tie down and your camper anchor point. Why does spring-loaded matter? Being set up with spring-loaded turnbuckles ensures the safety of your passengers as well as the integrity of your truck and camper. The internal spring mechanism of the turnbuckle acts as a shock absorber and protects your truck camper anchor points. Each style of Torklift turnbuckles is equipped with this spring-loaded mechanism to provide you with maximum security while hauling your truck camper.

Camper Anchor Repair and Relocation Kit

Okay so you didn’t take our advice on getting springloaded turnbuckles the first time you tried truck camper turnbuckles – if that was you, read on. This kit is designed for folks who accidentally ripped out their camper anchor point by not using a spring-loaded truck camper turnbuckle. This kit allows you to repair the anchor point (which is required for holding down your truck camper). It can also be used to re-locate a truck camper anchor point in case it is in the wrong spot. How could a truck camper anchor point be in the wrong spot? Here is an example – you bought a dually truck and the fenders stick out which lead to your fender coming into contact with your turnbuckle. Moving the anchor point allows you to situate the camper anchor point in an area to avoid that interference.

Put together your products

Once you have established the proper camper tie down fitment for your vehicle, all you have to do is install! The good news about the Torklift TRUE frame-mounted™ camper tie downs is they are 100% no-drill designs for all trucks after 2001, making them as DIY friendly as possible. Got a truck older than 2001? No problem, we’ve got an application for that but some modification could be needed. Every part number comes with detailed instructions to assist you every step of the way through install. If you need additional assistance on how to install truck camper tie downs, our tech support team is available Monday – Friday, 8:30 am – 5 pm PST by phone, email, or Facetime.

Depending on which Torklift turnbuckle kit you choose to go with, assembly may vary. Not to worry, each turnbuckle kit also comes with detailed instructions and we have Youtube videos for reference available for each kit! (see below)

Basic SpringLoad Kit 

SpringLoad XL Kit 

FastGun Kit Assembly 

FastGun Kit Installation 

Once you have your truck camper tie downs installed and your spring-loaded turnbuckles assembled and tensioned to 300 ft/lbs, you are ready to get your truck camper on the road!

Aftercare

Getting your Torklift camper tie downs and spring-loaded turnbuckles assembled and installed is the majority of the work. You are going to want to invest some time into the maintenance of your products to be sure they last as long as possible. Here are 3 tips to maintaining your camper tie downs:

  1. Clean them regularly. To avoid any excess debris or surface rust, we recommend cleaning up your truck camper tie downs and turnbuckles any time you’d wash your vehicle.
  2. Use a rust inhibitor. To further combat surface rust, use a rust inhibitor after washing. A commonly used one is Rust-O-Leum.
  3. Use the Tie Down Finishing Kit. When tie downs are not in use, remove inserts and use our capping kit to protect tie downs from additional environmental damage. 

If you have any further questions about how to tie down your truck camper, please give our customer service team a phone call at 800-246-8132 or by emailing us at support@torklift.com. If you would like to locate a dealer in your area, please visit our dealer portal

 

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Why do you want your turnbuckles to be spring-loaded?

truckcamper2

You’ve just invested a hefty amount of money on your truck camper, and now you are thinking “Where do I go from here?”. Well, the answer is simple! You want to make sure that you have all the appropriate equipment to haul your truck camper safely. To secure your truck camper to your truck, you will need an appropriate tie down and turnbuckle system.

What is a truck camper turnbuckle?

Your truck camper turnbuckle is going to be the connection bridge between your camper anchor points and your Torklift camper tie downs. Turnbuckles are a necessary piece of equipment within a truck camper and tie down system to ensure the safe travel of your camper and passengers.

What does it mean to be spring-loaded?

A turnbuckle is considered spring-loaded when it is equipped with an internal spring mechanism that allows for slight movement when placed under impact.

3 reasons you want your turnbuckles to be spring-loaded

1. Safety first!

Your truck camper turnbuckles are a very important piece of equipment that are a part of your Torklift truck camper tie down system. Each style of Torklift turnbuckle is equipped with an internal spring-loaded mechanism, when this spring-loaded mechanism is tensioned properly and engaged, it acts as a shock absorber to make the overall ride of your truck camper more smooth and comfortable. This also ensures the safety of your cargo and passengers.

2. Ensures that there is no damage to the vehicle and truck camper

Since the spring-loaded mechanism of the turnbuckle acts as a shock absorber, a spring -loaded turnbuckle would take on any impact that may be experienced during a rough ride – in turn, the use of spring-loaded turnbuckles also protects the anchor points on your truck camper and the attachments on your truck camper tie downs as well. The last thing you want to deal with on your camper is the costly task of repairing or replacing your truck camper anchor points. With that being said, the shock absorption from the spring-loaded camper turnbuckles ensures the preservation or your true frame-mounted tie downs. In fact, as long as you are using any of our fully spring-loaded turnbuckles with our frame-mounted camper tie downs, we warranty the truck frame and camper anchor points for the extent of the camper manufacturer warranty.

3. If you have frame-mounted tie downs

As long as you are using TRUE Frame-Mounted Tie Downs, you are going to need spring-loaded turnbuckles to guarantee the safest set up. In the case that your truck is equipped with bed-mounted camper tie downs, you would want to opt for the Torklift AnchorGuard Derringer turnbuckles or the FastGun .45 Turnbuckles. The Torklift AnchorGuard turnbuckles are equipped with two spring-loaded turnbuckles for your front mounts and two cushioned turnbuckles for the rear mounts.

If you are interested in getting set up with a set of our spring-loaded turnbuckles or would like to talk further about which design would be best for you, please give our customer service team a phone call at 800-246-8132 or by emailing us at support@torklift.com. If you would like to locate a dealer in your area, please visit our dealer portal here.

 

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How to maintain your Torklift Tie Downs and Fastguns

truck-camper

truck camper

Looking for the perfect way to get off the grid and go camping, but still able to camp in an RV? Truck Bed Camping is the perfect way to hit the road and go camping and allows you to go in further off the beaten path. There are many truck camping options out there, but the starter pack would include the truck, truck camper and equipment to tie the camper to the truck.

Torklift Camper Tie Downs

tiedowns1tTruck Camper Tie Downs are a necessity to securely attach a truck camper to a truck. There are two options in truck camper tie downs for vehicles older than 2017 which include Torklift Frame-Mounted Tie Downs and the alternative option of bed mounted tie downs. (Torklift makes truck camper tie downs for 2017 plus as well). By going with frame mounted tie downs, you are attaching to the frame of the truck as opposed to attaching to the aluminum body of a truck or bumper which often can cause damage to your pickup truck. Torklift frame mounted tie downs are manufactured to fit specific trucks and truck frames and due to this are sold in a set of two for front Torklift camper tie downs and a set of two for Torklift rear camper tie downs.

How to maintain the life of Torklift Tie Downs

Although products manufactured by Torklift International come with a Legendary Lifetime Warranty, finish is something that is not under warranty due to the camper tie downs being exposed to the natural elements that can cause corrosion when steel is exposed. If you are interested in corrosion resistant truck camper tie downs, click here to determine if the Torklift Talon Tie Downs upgrade are for you.

There are two steps to maintaining your Steel Camper Tie Downs which include:

1) Regularly inspect and clean your tie downs. As previously mentioned, your vehicles are exposed to elements that may cause corrosion to steel such as road salts, salt water, etc. By inspecting your camper tie downs regularly and cleaning off any chemicals your truck may have come into contact with while driving on the roads, you are able to prevent the potential of rust. If you are dip the rear of your truck into salt water while off-loading your boat for a fishing trip, you will absolutely want to hose down the underbody to prevent rust from all aftermarket steel products installed on your truck.

2) If you do begin to see rust due to exposed steel, touch up the Torklift Tie Downs with an enamel or urethane-based aerosol paint products such as Rust-Oleum.

Like any great product, some maintenance may be required even if that just means wiping them down after your camping trip.

How to maintain the life of Torklift Fastgun

fastguns1tTorklift Fastgun Turnbuckles are what you would use to attach the truck camper to the frame mounted camper tie downs. This springloaded system for truck camper turnbuckles allows you to set tension of the turnbuckle system once – that’s right, once, and with the easy quick release handle, you are able to remove the tie downs easily at the end of each trip or when you want to remove your truck camper.

Just like the camper tie downs, you will want to maintain the truck camper turnbuckles as well. An easy way to clean off the turnbuckles and to avoid the possibility of corrosion, is to use a WD-40 and microfiber towel or cloth to wipe them down. If you are looking to polish the Fastgun turnbuckles, specifically the polished stainless steel Fastguns, we recommend using a stainless steel chrome or aluminum wheel polish.

Another way to maintain the life of the product is to add a level of security. The Torklift Fastgun locks are a great addition to your camper tie down system and allow for added security while you are on your camping trip.

Have further Questions?

If you have further questions on truck camper tie downs and turnbuckles maintenance, our team is ready to take your call or answer your email. We are open Monday – Friday 8:30 am PST to 5 pm PST, excluding holidays. You can contact our team by calling 800-246-8132 or emailing support@torklift.com.

Looking for Torklift camper tie downs for sale? Find a dealer in your area or online!

Where to Buy

 

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