DIY Hi-Lift and Tool Mounts

Ponasaurus · May 13, 2020

Benson X[OP] initial post: ↑

I finally got around to making a mount for my Hi-Lift using the factory bed rails, and ended up making a few more for my shovel, axe, hatchet, fire extinguisher, and flashlight.

I have limited tools, so I had to improvise on some things. Not all the holes and measurements are 100% exact, but each mount is still solid and secure.

NOTES:

A drill press and vise is recommended and would speed up the entire process. I did not use either, but it made for additional work.

You can make all the mounts on here using (2) 36" pieces of flat-bar (listed below)

Most people will be using different style shovels, axes, hatchets, flashlights, fire extinguishers etc. - keep that in mind and make sure to measure and test fit your tools before drilling and cutting. Don't get pissed at me if your setup isn't the same as mine.

I am not proficient in drafting or design, so please excuse the crappy dimensions/diagrams

Please feel free to leave pertinent questions, constructive feedback, or comments.

As always, I am not responsible for any damage or injury resulting from anyone doing these mods.

TOOLS USED:
Drill (or drill press)
Center punch
Small Pilot bit (7/32")
1/4" bit (titanium recommended)
5/16" bit (titanium recommended)
3/8" bit (titanium recommended)
Hammer
Vise (or equivalent)
Cut-Off Wheel (Dremel works)
10mm wrench and socket
13mm wrench and socket
14mm wrench and socket
Tape measure
Sharpie
LIGHT!!!

PAINT:
I primed and spray painted each mounting bracket black. I then dipped each bend in Plasti-Dip and double-dipped the bottom mounting brace for the fire extinguisher. The plasti-dip should help prevent any vibrations and absorb some shock.

----< Hi-Lift Mount >----

PARTS NEEDED:(each part is a hyperlink)
I got pretty much everything at Home Depot aside from the T-Nuts.

(2) 3/8-16 T-Slot nuts (Zoro part #G1777921)
(1) 1.5" x 18" Steel Flat Bar (1/8" thick)
(2) 2" 3/8-16 Bolts
(2) .75" 3/8-16 Bolts
(2) 3/8" Lock Washers
(6) 3/8" Washers
(2) 3/8" Fender Washers
(2) 3/8" Rubber Fender Washers
(2) 3/8-16 Nylon Locking Nuts
(2) 3/8-16 Jam Nuts
(2) 3/8-16 Wing Nuts*

*I found some 3/8-16 Knobs at Lowes that work much better than the Wing Nuts to secure the Hi-Lift. Pics updated.

Step 1:I measured, cut and drilled my mounting plates using the 1.5" x 36" Steel Flat Bar (1/8" thick).

I measured 9" down and marked it with my Sharpie, and then made another mark at 8".

Cut it off @ 9". Bend it to 90°from the 8" mark using your hammer and vise (or equivalent). Make (2) of these pieces.

I drilled my top holes .75" down from the top (the un-bent side) centered .75" in.

I drilled my second holes 4" down from the top, again centered .75" in.

Step 2: Assemble your mounts and attach to the bed rail.

For the Hi-Lift Mounting Bolt:
2" Bolt >>> Mounting Bracket >>> Nylon Locking Nut >>> Washer >>> Jam Nut >>> Hi-Lift >>> Wing Nut

*NOTE* When tightening your Jam Nuts down, make sure the flat edges are parallel to the edge of your flat bar. The Jam Nuts fit perfectly in the Hi-Lift holes to help stabilize it when mounting and help hold it in place.

For the T-Slot nut that goes in the rail:
T-Slot Nut >>> Fender Washer >>> Mounting Bracket >>> Washer >>> Lock Washer >>> .75" Bolt

Assembled:

Step 3: Attach it to your bed rails, and mount your Hi-Lift

FRONT:

BACK:

DETAIL OF THE JAM NUT IN THE HI-LIFT HOLE:

HI-LIFT MOUNTED:

Upgraded to these Knobs instead of the Wing Nuts.

----< Tool Mount >----

PARTS NEEDED: (each part is a hyperlink)
I got pretty much everything at Home Depot or Lowe's aside from the Quick-Fists and T-Nuts.

(4) Original QuickFists (I got the combo pack + 2 originals)
(2) 3/8-16 T-Slot nuts (Zoro part #G1777921)
(1) 1.5" x 19" Steel Flat Bar (1/8" thick)
(2) 1-1/2" 3/8-16 Bolts
(2) 3/8" Lock Washers
(6) 3/8" Fender Washers
(6) 3/8" Thick Rubber Fender Washers
(4) 1/4-20 1" Bolts
(4) 1/4-20 Nylon Locking Nuts

Step 1: I measured, cut and drilled my mounting plates using the 1.5" x 36" Steel Flat Bar (1/8" thick).

I measured 9.5" down and marked it with my Sharpie, and then made another mark at 8".

Cut it off @ 9.5". Bend it to 90°from the 8" mark using your hammer and vise (or equivalent). Make (2) of these pieces. I drilled my 3/8" top holes .75" down from the top (the un-bent side) centered .75" in.

I drilled my 1/4" holes 2.5" down from the top, and the third set at 5-5/8" down from the top, both centered .75" in.

Step 2: Assemble your mounts and attach to the bed rail.

Quick-Fists to the Mounting Bracket:
1" 1/4-20 bolt >>> plastic washer (incl. w/ Quick-Fist) >>> Quick-Fist >>> flat bar >>> 1/4 washer >>> 1/4-20 nylon locking washer

Mounting Bracket to the T-Slot Nut:
I had to stack the fender washers to make a spacer. Otherwise, my shovel would hit the rail.

1.5" 3/8-16 Bolt >>> 3/8 lock washer >>> Mounting Bracket >>> fender washer >>> rubber fender washer >>> fender washer >>> rubber fender washer >>> fender washer >>> rubber fender washer >>> T-Slot nut

Step 3: Attach your mounting brackets, and mount your tools.

SEE BELOW FOR THE "T-MOUNT"

Click to expand...

Who makes that Axe?

20somethingwidataco · May 13, 2020

went a different route

Benson X · May 13, 2020

Ponasaurus said: ↑

Who makes that Axe?
Click to expand...

That is made by Ames True Temper, 3.5lb

Ponasaurus · May 13, 2020

Benson X[OP] said: ↑

That is made by Ames True Temper, 3.5lb
Click to expand...

THanksMan!!

possibilitiez · May 28, 2020

Thank you for the awesome write up! I had to use my own measurements cause I’m using a bed cover. Only was able to mount one tool on each side but I’m still a happy camper!

20somethingwidataco · May 28, 2020

Part 2:

blitzkrieg3002 · Jul 18, 2020

Just did this Mod today on my DCSB 3rd Gen. came out clean and fits under the bakflip mx4. Had to do slightly diff measurements and drilling as my side rail is relocated lower because of the cover. Awesome write up and great diy project.

yoopersteeze · Sep 5, 2020

Worked slick.

sodaryl · Oct 10, 2020

Needed to redo things now with the Diamondback instead of the canopy, my only fuck up was getting 2" bolts that weren't threaded all the way, stupid Lowe's.

CherokeeCajun · Dec 14, 2020

Sub’d

TacoDDS · Dec 14, 2020

Benson X[OP] initial post: ↑

I finally got around to making a mount for my Hi-Lift using the factory bed rails, and ended up making a few more for my shovel, axe, hatchet, fire extinguisher, and flashlight.

I have limited tools, so I had to improvise on some things. Not all the holes and measurements are 100% exact, but each mount is still solid and secure.

NOTES:

A drill press and vise is recommended and would speed up the entire process. I did not use either, but it made for additional work.

You can make all the mounts on here using (2) 36" pieces of flat-bar (listed below)

Most people will be using different style shovels, axes, hatchets, flashlights, fire extinguishers etc. - keep that in mind and make sure to measure and test fit your tools before drilling and cutting. Don't get pissed at me if your setup isn't the same as mine.

I am not proficient in drafting or design, so please excuse the crappy dimensions/diagrams

Please feel free to leave pertinent questions, constructive feedback, or comments.

As always, I am not responsible for any damage or injury resulting from anyone doing these mods.

TOOLS USED:
Drill (or drill press)
Center punch
Small Pilot bit (7/32")
1/4" bit (titanium recommended)
5/16" bit (titanium recommended)
3/8" bit (titanium recommended)
Hammer
Vise (or equivalent)
Cut-Off Wheel (Dremel works)
10mm wrench and socket
13mm wrench and socket
14mm wrench and socket
Tape measure
Sharpie
LIGHT!!!

PAINT:
I primed and spray painted each mounting bracket black. I then dipped each bend in Plasti-Dip and double-dipped the bottom mounting brace for the fire extinguisher. The plasti-dip should help prevent any vibrations and absorb some shock.

----< Hi-Lift Mount >----

PARTS NEEDED:(each part is a hyperlink)
I got pretty much everything at Home Depot aside from the T-Nuts.

(2) 3/8-16 T-Slot nuts (Zoro part #G1777921)
(1) 1.5" x 18" Steel Flat Bar (1/8" thick)
(2) 2" 3/8-16 Bolts
(2) .75" 3/8-16 Bolts
(2) 3/8" Lock Washers
(6) 3/8" Washers
(2) 3/8" Fender Washers
(2) 3/8" Rubber Fender Washers
(2) 3/8-16 Nylon Locking Nuts
(2) 3/8-16 Jam Nuts
(2) 3/8-16 Wing Nuts*

*I found some 3/8-16 Knobs at Lowes that work much better than the Wing Nuts to secure the Hi-Lift. Pics updated.

Step 1:I measured, cut and drilled my mounting plates using the 1.5" x 36" Steel Flat Bar (1/8" thick).

I measured 9" down and marked it with my Sharpie, and then made another mark at 8".

Cut it off @ 9". Bend it to 90°from the 8" mark using your hammer and vise (or equivalent). Make (2) of these pieces.

I drilled my top holes .75" down from the top (the un-bent side) centered .75" in.

I drilled my second holes 4" down from the top, again centered .75" in.

Step 2: Assemble your mounts and attach to the bed rail.

For the Hi-Lift Mounting Bolt:
2" Bolt >>> Mounting Bracket >>> Nylon Locking Nut >>> Washer >>> Jam Nut >>> Hi-Lift >>> Wing Nut

*NOTE* When tightening your Jam Nuts down, make sure the flat edges are parallel to the edge of your flat bar. The Jam Nuts fit perfectly in the Hi-Lift holes to help stabilize it when mounting and help hold it in place.

For the T-Slot nut that goes in the rail:
T-Slot Nut >>> Fender Washer >>> Mounting Bracket >>> Washer >>> Lock Washer >>> .75" Bolt

Assembled:

Step 3: Attach it to your bed rails, and mount your Hi-Lift

FRONT:

BACK:

DETAIL OF THE JAM NUT IN THE HI-LIFT HOLE:

HI-LIFT MOUNTED:

Upgraded to these Knobs instead of the Wing Nuts.

----< Tool Mount >----

PARTS NEEDED: (each part is a hyperlink)
I got pretty much everything at Home Depot or Lowe's aside from the Quick-Fists and T-Nuts.

(4) Original QuickFists (I got the combo pack + 2 originals)
(2) 3/8-16 T-Slot nuts (Zoro part #G1777921)
(1) 1.5" x 19" Steel Flat Bar (1/8" thick)
(2) 1-1/2" 3/8-16 Bolts
(2) 3/8" Lock Washers
(6) 3/8" Fender Washers
(6) 3/8" Thick Rubber Fender Washers
(4) 1/4-20 1" Bolts
(4) 1/4-20 Nylon Locking Nuts

Step 1: I measured, cut and drilled my mounting plates using the 1.5" x 36" Steel Flat Bar (1/8" thick).

I measured 9.5" down and marked it with my Sharpie, and then made another mark at 8".

Cut it off @ 9.5". Bend it to 90°from the 8" mark using your hammer and vise (or equivalent). Make (2) of these pieces. I drilled my 3/8" top holes .75" down from the top (the un-bent side) centered .75" in.

I drilled my 1/4" holes 2.5" down from the top, and the third set at 5-5/8" down from the top, both centered .75" in.

Step 2: Assemble your mounts and attach to the bed rail.

Quick-Fists to the Mounting Bracket:
1" 1/4-20 bolt >>> plastic washer (incl. w/ Quick-Fist) >>> Quick-Fist >>> flat bar >>> 1/4 washer >>> 1/4-20 nylon locking washer

Mounting Bracket to the T-Slot Nut:
I had to stack the fender washers to make a spacer. Otherwise, my shovel would hit the rail.

1.5" 3/8-16 Bolt >>> 3/8 lock washer >>> Mounting Bracket >>> fender washer >>> rubber fender washer >>> fender washer >>> rubber fender washer >>> fender washer >>> rubber fender washer >>> T-Slot nut

Step 3: Attach your mounting brackets, and mount your tools.

SEE BELOW FOR THE "T-MOUNT"

Click to expand...

fantastic write up! Thank you, will be probably doing some similar stuff as my build goes along

asciimike · Feb 20, 2021

Here's my take on mounts. Grabbed 12" x 1" x 1/8" aluminum as well as stainless steel T-slot nuts from McMaster, some stainless bolts and nuts from Ace, and Quickfists from Amazon. Drilled the Quickfists out and used M8 bolts and nylocks. Everything is secured with a MasterLock Python lock (I believe the 3/8" OD).

DanceswithWolves · Feb 21, 2021

@Benson X

Hey Ben,

Is this your store?

T Slot Nuts (4 Pack), T Slot Nut for Toyota Tundra & Toyota Tacoma Pick-Up Truck Bed Deck Rails Accessories & Tie Down, Fits Screws with 3/8"-16 Thread.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B073ZN63BH/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Note the 3rd picture, looks familiar.

Benson X · Feb 21, 2021

DanceswithWolves said: ↑

@Benson X

Hey Ben,

Is this your store?

T Slot Nuts (4 Pack), T Slot Nut for Toyota Tundra & Toyota Tacoma Pick-Up Truck Bed Deck Rails Accessories & Tie Down, Fits Screws with 3/8"-16 Thread.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B073ZN63BH/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Note the 3rd picture, looks familiar.
Click to expand...

Ha, sure isn't. Someone just felt the need to borrow my pic, I guess.

CascadianAngler · Feb 21, 2021

Kidwidataco said: ↑

Part 2:

Click to expand...

What are/where did you get those spacers?

Bodedillon · Feb 21, 2021

My contributions.

20somethingwidataco · Feb 21, 2021

CascadianAngler said: ↑

What are/where did you get those spacers?
Click to expand...

My dad made them for me on his lathe. They are 1 inch spacers, with a hole in the middle

20somethingwidataco · Feb 21, 2021

Forgot to add this here, mounted up my hi lift jack awhile ago as well. Had to get custom brackets made to fit them with my sleeper set up and canopy.

Gutter509 · May 1, 2021

Kidwidataco said: ↑

Forgot to add this here, mounted up my hi lift jack awhile ago as well. Had to get custom brackets made to fit them with my sleeper set up and canopy.

Click to expand...

Is your ski rack bolted directly to your bed platform? That looks pretty good. I'm playing with the idea of making a variation of the shovel/ax mount, but for two pair of skis and poles vertically stacked.

20somethingwidataco · May 1, 2021

Gutter509 said: ↑

Is your ski rack bolted directly to your bed platform? That looks pretty good. I'm playing with the idea of making a variation of the shovel/ax mount, but for two pair of skis and poles vertically stacked.
Click to expand...

That would be pretty sweet, but yes my rack is bolted to my bed platform. I take them off as soon as the season is over so I can use it to sleep on

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DIY Hi-Lift and Tool Mounts

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#541
Ponasaurus IG: a_fishy_taco

#542
20somethingwidataco Yes, my avatar is a real car.

#543
Benson X [OP] My build thread sucks...

#544
Ponasaurus IG: a_fishy_taco

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possibilitiez New Member

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yoopersteeze Fake it til you make it

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Benson X [OP] My build thread sucks...

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