Forum Discussion
- Gary3ExplorerI like HappiJac system but you will find just as many like Torklift so toss a coin.
- Super_DaveExplorerTorklift uses holes already in your frame so just a bolt up.
- Yeti_plusExplorerI installed Torklift tie downs on my 2014 Chev dually in July. You need some sockets and a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to spec. that they give you on the installation sheet. My install was a little messy as the undercoating got squished out as I tightened everything up, but if you live in an area where undercoating isn't necessary you should be good to go. Depending on your application E-trailer has many install videos on the website, so you aren't going in blind. I found the video for my install 2 months after I put the tie downs on.:S
Good luck in your decision.
Brian - wintersunExplorer IIThe Happijack are going to be easier to install than the Torklift tie-downs. You are less likely to have problems with the Happijack tie-downs as it does not have to integrate into the truck's frame and bed mounts.
I went with the Torklift tie-downs for my 2011 GM standard bed pickup and it took a full day to install them. Part of the problem was that I had to trim metal off of 3 of the tie-downs to get them to fit on the truck and for that I used a reciprocating saw, a grinder, and spray paint to get a good fit. One to the brackets would have had a fuel line and a brake line rubbing on it the entire time, even when the camper was off the truck.
My reason for going with the Torklift tie-downs is that when you remove the outer brackets nothing protrudes from the side of the truck when you do not have the camper in the bed. The rear tie-downs also seemed stronger than the Happijack setup but this was a secondary consideration.
I was very glad I had not paid a shop by the hour to install them as it would have added $1000 to the cost. - languiduckExplorerEven if you are ok with drilling a bunch of holes in the front of the bed for the Happijacks, that bracket remains between the bed and cab and is kind of ugly. I also don't like the the rear tie downs secured to the rear bumper.
The Torklifts are bolted to the frame, and the ends can be quickly removed when not in use and aren't very noticeable. And they can be completely removed if you decide to sell the truck with no holes or damage left behind. - GeoBoyExplorerTorklifts all the way, they are true frame mounts. Your 2500+ lb. camper mounted to the frame is much better than the sheetmetal of the box and the metal of the rear bumper!
- RamTCExplorerOnce I found out the TL cost for my new 3500, I bought the HJ again. Just like the HJ system on my previous 3500, no problems.
- jimh406Explorer IIIIt is a DIY project, but if you aren't sure, you can always get an installed estimate from local shops. It took me 2-3 hours ... Taking my time and reading how to disconnect my rear emergency brake cable.
I didn't really consider Happijacs since my TC manufacturer recommends frame mounted tie downs. - hedgeExplorerdepends on the truck but my torklift mounts are very easy as they mount to the front spring perch. They only took me about 1/2 hour to install.
- BonesquatchExplorerTorklift. Did my own installation over the space of a couple of evenings. Not particularly difficult and they are solid on the frame. Not the sheet metal or bumper. Seems a lot more stable and stronger than the Happijacks.
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