Happyjack or Torklift
I am zeroing in on a TC and wondering which is the best setup. Are they a DIY thing to install?
Forum Discussion
Either brand can be installed your self. The HJ system requires decent drill bits, the TL decent wrenches. I originally installed the HJ system. Few years later replaced with the TL mounts on same truck.
Both are pretty much a bolt on. I found the TL system physically more of a work out, 3 hours just simple bolting. For me, drilling holes in the bed for the HJ more difficult, Just couldn't measure enough before drilling that first hole. That and drilling rear bumper not fun.
In our case the TL system holds our tall heavy camper better. The strength of system IS primary consideration. Noticeable difference in handling tied directly to frame verse thru bed & bumper. Though on ours, the front TLs do have a brace that ties to bed cross member.
My eye sees the 2 systems as apples and oranges-. One costs considerably less out of pocket than the other but for what you get I see the lesser one overpriced. My preference is the TL, but I couldnt recommend one over the other, except where the larger the camper the more justifiable Torklifts.
Having to modify either system is not the norm, but if a typical DYI'er you know everything can be improved upon to fit your eye. Obviously frame mount system is more truck specific, with all the variables more likely to run into something, still, not the norm.
Only other thought is the mention of the rear TL mounts and possible receiver change, if upgrading the receiver different rear TL mounts are used than for stock. So yes, if planned, do it first or you'll be replacing rear mounts.
My 2¢...
Both are pretty much a bolt on. I found the TL system physically more of a work out, 3 hours just simple bolting. For me, drilling holes in the bed for the HJ more difficult, Just couldn't measure enough before drilling that first hole. That and drilling rear bumper not fun.
In our case the TL system holds our tall heavy camper better. The strength of system IS primary consideration. Noticeable difference in handling tied directly to frame verse thru bed & bumper. Though on ours, the front TLs do have a brace that ties to bed cross member.
My eye sees the 2 systems as apples and oranges-. One costs considerably less out of pocket than the other but for what you get I see the lesser one overpriced. My preference is the TL, but I couldnt recommend one over the other, except where the larger the camper the more justifiable Torklifts.
Having to modify either system is not the norm, but if a typical DYI'er you know everything can be improved upon to fit your eye. Obviously frame mount system is more truck specific, with all the variables more likely to run into something, still, not the norm.
Only other thought is the mention of the rear TL mounts and possible receiver change, if upgrading the receiver different rear TL mounts are used than for stock. So yes, if planned, do it first or you'll be replacing rear mounts.
My 2¢...
