Bed Track Bolts Threads Deformed

[geenweb]

I decided to add a second cleat to each of my bed rails because the hard tonneau cover mount limits the cleat travel. The bed rails needed to be removed to do this.

The bolt closest to the cab is a smaller diameter than the middle and back bolts, and came out easily. The middle and back bolts however were incredibly tight. I actually broke a T30 Torx bit removing the back bolt. Here is a photo of the middle and back bolts. As you can see the threads on the first ~3/8" of the bolt are deformed.

Is this intentional by Ford to make sure the bolts don't come loose? I did have a spray in bed-liner done, so the folks that did that had to remove and re-install these rails. But I can't imagine why they would have put different bolts in.

Anyone else remove their bed rails? What was your experience?

Thanks,

Gene

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[Hot Runr Guy]

I've loosened/removed the rails on both of my '24's (that have SIBL) and have not had a problem. Maybe your SIBL installer cross-threaded them when re-installing?

HRG

 

[geenweb]

Yup, my cove is a Rough Country also. I do really like.

I guess the SIBL installer did as you speculate.
I'm trying to figure out the bolt size. The dimensions are: Dia = 7.78mm Len = 27mm, Pitch = 1.25. So I'm guessing M8x30 1.25.

 

[geenweb]

Thanks for confirming. I'm searching online for replacements and coming up empty. I hate to put these back in. I'm assuming the Ford dealer won't sell just 4 bolts, but maybe I'll stop by and check.

 

[Maxxedoubt]

Try Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/M8-1-25-Butt...ocphy=9191875&hvtargid=pla-2281435176898&th=1

 

[Hot Runr Guy]

I installed a Rough Country cover Saturday and they assured me it would work with the rails system. Well technically like you found it does as long as you don't want to use the full rail. I positioned mine in the front half since there are the cleats at the rear.

Is it because of the clamps?

HRG

 

[geenweb]

I searched Grainger, MSC, ND McMaster-Carr. No luck. I'm at the dealership right now and they're on the phone try to locate them. Someone besides Ford actually makes this, so they need to find out who and see if they can buy bolts from them. Even if they aren't successful, I have to give my dealership, Keystone Ford in Chambersburg PA, kudos for the effort.

I'll check Fastenal when I get home if these guys can't get it.

 

[Hot Runr Guy]

Where did you get the black clamps? And no matter what anyone says on this forum a Rough Country backflip will never be water proof with no drips. It's pretty good with the additional sealant I have used but the hinge points will leak if water pools on them and so will the bulkhead seal. Not bad and I'm happy with it.

If you're asking me, I installed my BakFlip MX4 and my Elevate TS rails at the same time, I honestly don't remember which kit the black clamps came out of. I'll dig into the instructions and see if that tells me.

HRG

Edit, looking at the install paperwork, the black clamps came with the BakFlip tri-fold cover.

 

[geenweb]

My RC clamps have tightening knobs.

 

[geenweb]

I thought about messing with the clamps. Then I got a 20% off accessories email from Ford, and I had points from buying the truck. So I thought it would be cheap and simpler to add a cleat to the back of each. Best laid plans....

 

[geenweb]

The head of a hex bolt would be too high and block the rail track. But Thanks.

 

[Hot Runr Guy]

I

I bought pan head screws and that doesn't work. Still not enough clearance.

These?

https://belmetric.com/m8-ultra-low-...wO3r4iMg8fY-52437f4tznl5YL1zLoxxoCpBAQAvD_BwE

HRG

 

[geenweb]

Thanks! Sooo close. If they came in a longer length I might try them. The head height of the bolts is 2.75mm and the head diameter is 15mm. These are actually lower profile. But 20mm length wont engage enough of the nut.

 

[BlueSpec1]

M8 x 1.25 x 30mm Ultra Low Profile / Wafer Head.

304 A2-70 Stainless Steel Hex Socket Ultra Thin Flat Wafer Allen Head Bolt Screw(30mm,M8 5pcs)
M8 x 40mm 20Pcs Flat Head Hex Socket Cap Screws Bolts,304 Stainless Steel 18-8 Bolts,Full Thread
McMaster-Carr Alloy Steel Ultra-Low-Profile M8 x 1.25 x 30mm $9.85ea

 

[Buggy Man]

I decided to add a second cleat to each of my bed rails because the hard tonneau cover mount limits the cleat travel. The bed rails needed to be removed to do this.

The bolt closest to the cab is a smaller diameter than the middle and back bolts, and came out easily. The middle and back bolts however were incredibly tight. I actually broke a T30 Torx bit removing the back bolt. Here is a photo of the middle and back bolts. As you can see the threads on the first ~3/8" of the bolt are deformed.

Is this intentional by Ford to make sure the bolts don't come loose? I did have a spray in bed-liner done, so the folks that did that had to remove and re-install these rails. But I can't imagine why they would have put different bolts in.

Anyone else remove their bed rails? What was your experience?

Thanks,

Gene

I found it difficult threading bolts into the bed rail holes - easy to cross thread. Make sure you have good quality bolts and use a tap to clean out the threads. Some of the hardware you get with aftermarket stuff is crap.

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