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Are there any easy to remove bed rail cleats?

Discussion in '3rd Gen. Tacomas (2016-2023)' started by CheesyGorditaCrunch, Sep 11, 2021.

  1. Sep 11, 2021 at 12:01 PM
    #1
    CheesyGorditaCrunch

    CheesyGorditaCrunch [OP] Member

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    I'm wanting to setup a scuba tank holder on the bed rails. I bought some T-Slot Nuts and a clamp to create something that can slide into the rail. To install, I have to remove the bolts that hold the rail on to the bed, so once it's installed, it's not easily removable, because I would have to remove the rail bolts again. I want to be able to remove them so they don't sit out in the sun all day.

    IMG_2069.jpg

    This is the setup I created
    IMG_2065.jpg

    Ideally I could have a setup where maybe instead of using the T-Slot nuts, I could use some twist locking clamp? Like the one that came with the truck. It has cleats with springs that can insert into the rail and then tighten to secure it. Is there a name for that hardware/part?

    I could leave the T slots in the rails and maybe use a hand knob on the 2 ends to put the tank clamp on every time. but it would be nice to have a system as easy as the cleat clamps the truck came with where you insert it into the rail, twist, then tighten.

    Sorry if my description of what I'm trying to do sucks lol.

    I would appreciate any tips or suggestions on what you guys think.
     
  2. Sep 11, 2021 at 12:08 PM
    #2
    NorNev

    NorNev Phone? Call someone who gives a shit.

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    E1C0F0D5-F576-42AB-8213-5B4410610078.jpg What about a fire extinguisher clamp set up, something you can snap on and off.
     
  3. Sep 11, 2021 at 12:08 PM
    #3
    NorNev

    NorNev Phone? Call someone who gives a shit.

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  4. Sep 11, 2021 at 12:53 PM
    #4
    rtadams89

    rtadams89 Well-Known Member

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    I had t nuts just like that and ended up milling out a channel in them so they could slide over the bolt heads holding the rail to the bed.
     
  5. Sep 11, 2021 at 1:15 PM
    #5
    Iwilltaco

    Iwilltaco Well-Known Member

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    Could you use the t-nuts like Hondo sells that you can turn and pull straight out of the track as opposed to sliding?
     
  6. Sep 11, 2021 at 1:33 PM
    #6
    GHOST SHIP

    GHOST SHIP hates you.

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    You guys are missing out. I’ve been using these for a few years instead of the t slot nuts. Remove the spring and the drop in the channel anywhere and lock themselves in place as you tighten. Plus they’re a hell of a lot cheaper than anything else.

    3/8-in Straight Strut Nut https://www.lowes.com/pd/Superstrut-3-8-in-Straight-Strut-Nut/3284278
     
  7. Sep 11, 2021 at 7:46 PM
    #7
    CheesyGorditaCrunch

    CheesyGorditaCrunch [OP] Member

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    @NorNev Those seem like good options, but don't seem to be easily removable after you install on the rails?
    @rtadams89 If I can't find something to twist and lock, that might be the way to go.
    @Iwilltaco That looks like what I'm looking for.
    @GHOST SHIP that would work. It looks similar to what @Iwilltaco suggested.

    @GHOST SHIP that one is interesting. Maybe if i can find a hand knob with a spring on it, I could use the Hondo T Nuts to maybe create something like the cleat clamps.
    upload_2021-9-11_19-45-27.jpg

    I appreciate the suggestions, I have some ideas of things to try now.
     
    Iwilltaco and NorNev like this.

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