One of the frustrations experienced by drivers of pickups is the tendency for items -- particularly smaller items -- to slide or roll around in the truck bed. One simple and inexpensive solution is to install a cargo net to help keep smaller items stationary while you drive. And if by chance you have a sliding or opening rear window in your truck, the items secured in the net are just an arm's length away. This is a simple installation and requires just a few basic tools.
Materials:
Cargo-net installation kit
Cordless drill and drill-bits
Silicone sealer
Grease pencil
Center-punch and hammer
The net is mounted to the forward wall of the bed, centered beneath the cab's rear window. Plastic anchors (figure A) provided in the installation kit secure the net to the rear of the cab. In the kit used in our demonstration, the anchors came with a peel-off adhesive backing. The anchors may be attached to the metal surface using either the adhesive backing or screws fastened directly into the metal. For added security, we opted to use the provided metal screws to firmly attach the anchors directly to the metal exterior of the cab.
- Determine the exact location for mounting the net. It should be centered horizontally, and in the case with our installation, the bottom of the net was installed about 2" above the bed surface. Measure and determine the locations for mounting the anchors according to the instructions that come with the kit. Mark the locations with a grease pencil.
- Once you've measured and marked the locations for drilling, center-punch the marked spots and drill the holes for installation of the mounting screws (figure B).
Important: Anytime that you drill or install screws into the metal body of a vehicle, first check to make certain that there aren't brake, fuel or electrical lines in the area underneath where you'll be drilling, or any other critical elements that might be damaged or punctured. You should be able to find additional information about this from your vehicle's service manual.
- Once you've drilled all four holes, apply some silicone sealer to the exposed metal to help prevent rust.
- Use the screws provided to attach the four plastic anchors and suspend the net in place according to the manufacturer's instructions.
One way to expand the versatility of a cargo net is to use it in conjunction with a cargo bar. This setup will allow you to use the net and an adjustable, telescoping bar to partition off a portion of your bed. The net and bar combination allows you to fine-tune your storage area for particular jobs or applications and to secure items effectively. The bar we used in our demonstration came equipped with a locking feature (figure C), and it attached to the bed sides with an adjustable fastener (figure D). A rubber boot prevents the fastener from marring the painted finish of the bed.
Important: This summary describes the basic steps in the installation shown in our demonstration. Installation on individual vehicles may vary. If you decide to undertake a similar installation, read and follow the manufacturer's instructions that come with your kit. Be aware that some kits may be vehicle-specific, so make certain that the one you purchase is compatible with your vehicle. Where necessary, consult your vehicle's owner's manual and/or service manual for information about locations of electrical wiring, any features that may be unique to your particular vehicle, etc.
RESOURCES :
Ultimate Auto Detailing
Model: 0879389419
Author: David H. Jacobs
(1995)
To order this title from Amazon.com, click here.
Motorbooks International
Auto Repair for Dummies
Author: Deanna Sclar
ISBN: 0764550896
Vehicles provided by Lance Cunningham Ford
Vehicles provided by Lance Cunningham Ford
4101 Clinton Highway
Knoxville, TN
Web site: www.lancecunninghamford.com
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