If your recreational vehicle is a truck with a camper, then you know that there is no bigger anxiety than the thought of the camper shifting or sliding as it's motoring down the highway. As we all know, that's why camper tie-downs were invented eons ago.
| 1. Large campers like this one from Host require topnotch tie-downs, and that's why it was outfitted with a TorkLift True frame-mounted unit with the patented FastGuns technology.
Tie-downs are designed to keep the camper from moving, both front-to-back and side-to-side, whether because of wind, a speed bump, or a sudden change in steering direction. Even the slightest shift can unbalance a camper or, worse, dump it overboard.
While preparing this story, RV Magazine discovered that makeshift tie-down systems continued to be alternatives to store-bought ones. These range from cheap pull straps to homemade adjustable rods, which suggests that the RV owner needs to be more informed as to the right way and wrong way to secure a camper to the truck bed. Obviously, saving a few bucks does not justify putting one's family at risk.
To reduce accidents, companies created elaborate systems to secure the camper more effectively. But the question remains, are all aftermarket tie-downs the same?
Tie-Down Differences
When you search online or visit your local camper supply store, you'll find different types of aftermarket tie-downs being offered. There are systems that attach the rear of the camper to the truck's bumper, some that fit in the stake pocket holes, and still others that attach to the truck's bed headboard. These all work fine in most light-duty situations, but those of you who own large campers with lots of square footage and weight might want to consider a frame-mounted system, which seem to be the most popular.
| 2. While the F-250 was carrying a small load, the owner had lots of camper movement and even resorted to using a makeshift tie-down as a temporary solution.
"While universal tie-downs that feature a crossbar that runs under the vehicle are acceptable, we think they can reduce ground clearance and are unsightly," says Justin Sagert of Pick-Up Parts in Mission Viejo, California. "If any service work needs to be done under the vehicle, they have to be removed first."
He adds, "There are some models that bolt directly to the bed that can cause body damage too. We recommend a frame-mounted, removable tie-down system because you will get the most secure application by attaching directly to the vehicle's frame."
| 3. The True system came with everything needed to get the RV back on track.
One of the leaders in the tie-down business is TorkLift International, maker of the True frame-mounted tie-down, an application-specific system that is designed to fit (without drilling) into the factory frame holes. And unlike some systems, the TorkLift tie-downs use up to 12 hardened bolts that attach directly into the frame.
We test-fitted the TorkLift True system with the FastGun Turnbuckle on a late-model Ford F-250 short-box crew cab and were immediately surprised by the ease of installation and the quality of components. Sure, a system like this is going to run $400-$800 (front to back and depending on application), but you'll probably never have to buy another one again because they also come with a lifetime warranty. One of the best features is that it takes very little time to remove it when you drop the camper at home or onsite, and there's nothing to get in your way.
What makes the TorkLift system unique is the patented design that offers four independent tie-down points without the universal-type crossbar found on less expensive systems. It works with the factory receiver trailer hitch, and it is unnoticeable when not in use. Another benefit to the TorkLift system is that these are not "one size fits all" models; they are designed for each make and model vehicle, offering a tight fit at the frame without compromising ground clearance.
Along with the True camper tie-down, we also installed the TorkLift FastGuns, which are spring-loaded (internally) like a shock absorber for your camper, reducing stress at your camper's anchor points. TorkLift offers three spring-loaded options: the Basic Spring-Load Unit, the Spring-Load XL, and FastGuns. We learned that if you already purchased another frame-mounted or bumper-mounted system, you can still use the FastGuns to complete the installation. So the next time you're on the road and there's unwanted camper movement, check out the True frame-mounted camper tie-down system with FastGun technology.
RV Magazine's installation took about two hours from start to finish using a single wrench for the frame bolts. The instructions were easy to read, and the fit-and-finish was topnotch. For this F-250, it provided just the right amount of road-worthiness in time for the next adventure.
