Any way to add D-rings without dremel?

Just picked up my extra D-rings today and I'm excited to perform my first mod!!!! One problem, I don't have a dremel to file down the washer like it's shown in the how to thread. Does anyone have any alternatives? I'd hate to shell out the money right now for a dremel, although it's a good tool to have, it's not in my imeadiate budget. I'm a little hesitant to take my bolts out before I know for sure I can finish the job. Thanks.

 

Grab a file and use some elbow grease... but be prepared to be there a while.

 

I mounted mine on the sides of the bed just off the floor at the cabin end. That way you don't have to do cut outs in any bed mat if you have one.....with the metal plate backing, I am convinced it provides every bit of strength, and likely more when pulled up on, than having it mounted to the floor of the bed. I mounted them just high enough sao when the rings are folded down, they are about 1/4" off the bed floor.

 

I know I saw one where the guy just drilled out the drains in the front of the bed. and installed them there with a backer plate..
To me making the D-Ring hole bigger for the bed bolts sounds like it weakens the integrity.

Here is that thread. no pics though.
http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/2nd-gen-tacomas/20960-added-extra-d-rings-easy-cheap-mod.html

 

+1
This is where the instructions that come with the OE D-Rings actually say to do...so it's what I did too. They come with the backer plates for this.

 

Do we know he's talking about TOYOTA D rings? Why would he need to drill them out if they were?

Do you have a tap and die kit? You can use a tap to open up the hole more.

 

Yeah my plan was to use the bed bolts with new toyota D-rings. BFH? I'm assuming you just used a "big f'ing hammer" to flatten the washer out? I fell a little behind today, so I'm gonna end up doing this tomorrow when I know I have enough daylight to take my time and make it perfect. I think I will look into the side mount, it may come into handy if/when I decide on a toolbox. Anyone got pics or a quick how to? Just so I get an idea.

EDIT: JUST FOUND THE INSTRUCTIONS THAT CAME WITH THE D-RINGS. BUT HAS ANYONE EVER PLACED THEN ANYWHERE OTHER THAN WHERE THEY TELL YOU TO?

 

Where did the instructions suggest?

 

I took out the bed bolts. Held them with a vise grip against the bumper of my work truck and then I used a saws all (but you could use a hack saw) to cut off a slice of the washer under the bed bolt. I put the blade right nest to the head of the bolt and let her rip. Filed the edge and put the OEM d ring that I bought right under it. Worked great!

 

you could use a hacksaw. or a grinder.

 

Going to all that trouble to use the bed bolts is.......masochistic. Just drill new holes and install!!!!!

 

I remember reading somewhere either on this forum or TN that there is one spot that you can drill and install the D-Ring without having to use the bed bolts and dremel.

This guy just enlarged the drain holes:
http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/2nd-gen-tacomas/20960-added-extra-d-rings-easy-cheap-mod.html

There was another thread somewhere where the guy took a measurement from the corner and installed them. I just ordered four to put in mine but I going on vacation for a month so it will have to wait. When I get back I will put it up on the lift and check things out. Sorry I can't be of more help.

 

Alright guys, just did it!! It took a little longer than it should have, but it turned out great.

I went out and picked up a grinder bit for my drill to take the place of a dremel. But I couldn't wait for my battery to charge, so I ended up doing the first one by hand.


By the time I was done with the first one my drill was ready and I got busy


Finished product, my first mod

 

I am with you on that one..

 

Looks good mgrande. You will use them often. I think it is the most used mod on my truck.

 

Betcha! With the backing plate, this thing isn't going to be pulled out, no way, if you just drill a hole and install, even on the side.

 

You are correct, but not for it's given use. The D-Ring installed into the bed will match the bed mount up to the recommended wieght capacity of the truck bed. The bed mount is stronger, but my point is that going to all the trouble some have is overkill based on it's intended use.

 

There is a thread on here somewhere where a guy just knocked the washer off and slid the D ring on and then put the washer back on.

Its on this forum. I'll try to find it. It sounded pretty simple.

EDIT:

Sorry, he used a dremel...

 

I used an angle grinder ($10 at a Harbor Freight store). Sliced right through the washer so I didn't have to remove it. If I didn't have the grinder, as said, I would've smacked it with a hammer and discarded the washer. It's not necessary for this application.

 

Interesting points...but I have not seen one single "cracked bed" on TW....is there one? Has anyone had a cracked bed, or a crack development in the bed? Personally, I think they are stronger than steel.