The Torklift International D2100 is a true frame-mounted tie-down system designed for securing truck campers. With over 35 years of innovation, quality, and safety, Torklift International emphasizes a robust and secure method for transporting campers, distinguishing their system from those that might compromise vehicle integrity or camper stability.
Function Description:
The primary function of the Torklift D2100 system is to provide secure anchor points for tying down a truck camper to the vehicle's frame. Unlike bed-mounted or bumper-mounted tie-downs, the frame-mounted design ensures that the forces from the camper are transferred directly to the truck's frame, which is the strongest part of the vehicle. This direct connection minimizes stress on the truck bed and helps prevent damage to both the truck and the camper, especially under harsh driving conditions or during off-road use. The system is designed to work in conjunction with turnbuckles (not included in the D2100 parts inventory but implied for use with the tie-down inserts) to create a stable and secure attachment for the camper. The tie-down inserts are removable, allowing the system to be virtually undetectable when not in use, thus maintaining the aesthetic and ground clearance of the vehicle.
Important Technical Specifications:
The D2100 parts inventory includes:
- 2 Tie-down Receivers
- 2 Tie-down Bent Inserts
- 4 1/2" X 2" Hex Bolts
- 12 1/2" Flat Washers
- 6 1/2" Lock Washers
- 4 1/2" Nuts
- 2 M10 x 1.5 x 40 Hex Bolts
- 8 1/2" Star Washers
- 2 1/4" Pins
- 1 1/2" Bolt Fisher
- 4 Tie Straps
- 1 3/8" x 9" (22.86cm) Rubber Hose
The system is designed to fit specific truck makes and models, ensuring a tight fit to the frame without compromising ground clearance. The tie-down inserts feature offset triangular "bullet plates" with two pre-drilled pinholes, allowing for flexibility in attachment and optimizing the angle of pull from the turnbuckles. A minimum of 2 inches of clearance between the chain/turnbuckle assembly and the truck bed wall is recommended when hooking up the camper. All bolts should be fastened to 60 ft. lbs. and checked for tightness, ensuring 1 inch of clearance between the insert and the bed lip.
Usage Features:
- Frame-Mounted Design: Provides superior strength and stability compared to bed-mounted systems, transferring the load directly to the truck's frame.
- Removable Inserts: The tie-down inserts can be easily removed when not in use, leaving the system virtually invisible and maintaining the truck's aesthetics and ground clearance.
- Optimized Pull Angle: The tie-down inserts feature a triangular "bullet plate" with multiple pinholes. The shorter side of the front insert should point towards the front of the truck, and the shorter side of the rear insert should point towards the rear, maximizing the forward and rearward pull angles for enhanced stability. The hole that provides the greatest angle is preferred for optimal performance.
- Emergency Brake Line Protection: An included 3/8" rubber hose and tie straps are provided to protect the emergency brake line from potential damage, depending on its position relative to the tie-down receiver. The tubing should be slit lengthwise and secured around the brake line.
- Bolt Fishing Guide: Detailed instructions and illustrations are provided for "fishing" bolts through the vehicle's frame, simplifying the installation process.
- Compatibility with Suspension Enhancements: Torklift strongly recommends the use of StableLoads to reduce body roll, sag, and sway, improving safety and handling. If the truck is equipped with air bags, Torklift advises against over-pressurization, noting that StableLoads can allow for a 50% or more reduction in air bag pressure while still leveling the truck.
- Truck Bed Protection: Torklift advises against installing a camper on a plastic bed liner or other compressible materials like foam, as these can cause increased vertical movement and may void the warranty. A rubber bed mat is recommended to protect the truck bed and camper and minimize movement, though it is not required to maintain the lifetime warranty.
Maintenance Features:
- Polished Stainless Steel Products: Torklift utilizes quality grade 304 stainless steel, known for its anti-corrosive properties. However, in environments with corrosive road chemicals or coastal regions, corrosion may occur. Occasional polishing with an approved stainless steel cleaning/polishing product (available from automotive suppliers) is recommended to maintain the attractive finish. For quick cleaning, WD40 and a cloth rag can be used.
- Powder Coated Steel Products: Torklift's steel products are sandblasted and coated with a high-quality industrial urethane-based powder coat. Due to the harsh undercar environment (exposure to corrosive road chemicals, salt, and debris), the powder-coated finish is not warranted against rusting, cracking, or peeling. To minimize corrosion, regular cleaning and inspection of the powder-coated surface are recommended. Any affected areas should be touched up with enamel or urethane-based aerosol paint. Aerosol spray rust converters are also available for surface rust preparation. These maintenance products can be found at automotive parts suppliers.
- Warranty Information: Torklift International offers a limited lifetime warranty on its hitches, custom hitch receivers, frame-mounted tie-downs, turnbuckles, and accessories (excluding wire harnesses, which have a 90-day warranty) from the date of purchase for the original consumer purchaser. Commercial applications are warranted for 90 days. The warranty covers defects in material and workmanship under normal use and service. It is limited to defective parts replacement only, excluding labor charges, incidental/consequential damages, and the finish/paint. Misuse, abuse, neglect, accident, improper installation, or commercial use will void the warranty. Proof of purchase and pictures of defective products are required for replacement.