Your truck already has anchors points at the front and back of the truck bed’s sheet metal on the side that you can use to attach s-hooks when you want to transport your cargo safely. And in most scenarios, like transporting a single motorbike, they would suffice and allow you to go from point A to B without a hassle, but other scenarios, like transporting more than one motorbike, you might need extra anchor points. That is where D-Rings come in handy.
This article will discuss what D-Rings are and how you can fasten them to the bed of your truck for optimal performance and usage. We will even throw in some cautionary tips so that you can use your D-rings effectively to ensure your cargo remains safe and secure.
What are D-Rings?
D-rings are D-shaped hardware made from metal, typically industrial strength steel, which can be secured directly to a truck or trailer’s surface to create extra tie-down points. And you can use them to secure your cargo using tie-down straps, ropes, bungee cords, among others. They usually come with some form of mounting bracket that you use to screw or bolt them to the surface of a truck or trailer so that they are secured properly.
How to Fasten D-Rings to the Bed of a Truck
Fastening D-rings to the bed of your truck is an easy process. You just need the following tools in order to do it properly: D-rings from your local hardware, ¾ inch self-tapping screws, a pencil to mark where you will place them, 1/20 drill and ruler. After you have everything you need, do the following steps to fasten the D-ring to the truck bed:
- Locate and mark the spot where the D-rings will be fastened to; use the ruler to measure where you want to fasten it for accurate markings, making sure to place it at a point that allows for multiple tie down applications
- Place a D-ring one of the spots you marked and hold it in place
- Use the drill to drill the self-tapping screws into the holes of the D-ring
- Repeat the previous two steps for the rest of the D-rings
Now your D-rings will be properly fastened to your truck bed and you would have created extra tie-down points so that you can transport more cargo at the back of your truck.
Cautionary Points
If D-rings are not used properly, they can easily become the weakest point of your tie-down application. Use the following cautionary tips to make sure that doesn’t happen:
- Make sure to always check if the load is properly secured to the D-rings to avoid damage, accidents or injuries
- Make sure that you inspect D-rings every time before you secure your cargo
- Always make sure the screws or bolts used to fasten the D-rings to the truck bed have not loosened over time
- Know the safe working load capacity of the D-rings and never exceed it
- If the D-rings are showing signs of wear and tear, do not secure your load to them
