Cali-Raised LED Bed Stiffeners

[BARE Outfitters]

We’re doing a simple mod on the Tacoma, primarily for structural integrity when we add the topper. Adding Cali-Raised LED Bed Channel Supports

If you’re curious about this product, follow along and we’ll share in depth pictures and any tips we have to make it easier for you.

If you’re interested in purchasing a set, you can find them here: https://bareoutfitters.com/products/2005-2020-toyota-tacoma-bed-channel-supports

Promo: “Toyota10” for 10% Off + FREE SHIPPING!

 

[BARE Outfitters]

Items that you will need:

• T55 Socket
• T40 Socket
• 7/32 Allen Wrench
• 9/16” Wrench
• 10mm Wrench
• Functional Ratchets
• Drill with sturdy chuck
• 3/8” drill bit and additional drill bit smaller in size

First thing to do is assess that your package has all of the matching contents.

• 2x bed channel supports (stiffeners)
• 8x 3/8” bolts
• 16x 3/8” washers
• 8x 3/8” lock nuts

We also suggest grabbing a can of black paint/primer or paint pen. This is important in preventing rust in the long run.

If you have met all of the above requirements, let’s move to the next steps.

 

[BARE Outfitters]

After opening your box, you can expect for your items to have arrived safely and unharmed. Although they are powdercoated, Cali-Raised takes the additional precautions to wrap and pack. each piece with care.
A small bag of hardware should be found tucked appropriately.

 

[BARE Outfitters]

After removing our bed mat, we jumped right in.
These large Grade 8 bolts may feel tight, but they will bust loose. If you’re unsure, double check your bit, your grip, and your ratchet. Cranking counter-clockwise (lefty-loosey), from the photo POV pushing towards the cab, it will bust loose.

Assess the threads of the bolt when removing to assure no complications when re-installing.

Looking down the bolt hole, we noticed that it didn’t line up very well. In fact, I was almost concerned that the bed has shifted a little, but this was likely from the factory.
We went ahead and lightly reinstalled the bolt by hand to check that it would capture the threads without complication.

ALL GOOD.

On to the tie-down removal.

 

[BARE Outfitters]

Same as the bed bolts, light increasing pressure, and it comes loose like a charm.

You’ll notice the tie-down is a bit different in composition, but as always, double-check the threads. Save this piece as it can be installed over the bed channels.

 

[BARE Outfitters]

We will have to unfortunately continue this write up in a day or two.
Getting caught by a surprise rain storm has delayed us safely completing this task.
No worries, we will be back.

 

[BARE Outfitters]

We finally got around to completing this project.

Resume; With the bed stiffeners lined up against the bed frame, we used a sharpie to mark our holes, including the back side facing the cab.
NOTE: we placed the tie-down and bed bolt, only finger tight while we mark the holes

We pulled the stiffener off and started drilling holes. We didn't hit it with the 3/8" drill bit initially, we utilized a smaller bit for our starter holes. Nothing feels as good as drilling in to a new truck

After the initial holes were completed, we drilled them out with the larger 3/8" bit.

After all of the holes were drilled, we went behind them with a small metal file to break loose the shavings and as much of the uneven edges as we could.

 

[BARE Outfitters]

Anytime you cut or drill metals, we feel it is best practice to coat those surfaces to prevent future.
We chose Rust-Oleum Canyon Black Paint + Primer in Satin, it's a pretty close match to the metals surrounding it.

We hate overspray , no worries, like we said above, it's a very close match and will be covered by the stiffeners regardless.

With the overspray, we quickly wiped it with a paper towel, and once more with a damp shop cloth around the hole to remove the overspray.

 

[BARE Outfitters]

Be sure to set up your hardware in this congfiguration. Bolt + washer -> washer + locknut

Behind the taillight, the space is tight. Maybe locate some shorty tools.

Once installed, we were able to retain the D-ring, however, it doesn't rotate.

 

[BARE Outfitters]

We tightened the bolts, starting at the bottom (the first hole drilled), then the top, then the back facing the cab, then the middle, THEN the d-ring and bed bolt.

Unsure on the suggested pattern, but we felt this suck the channel support, right up to the bedside and really sit flush.

Something to note: the OEM bed mat, will not sit flush. Trimming is required or will hangover as seen.

Very satisfied with the install, and the products are incredibly sturdy.
Simple little project that should provide long-lasting support for your vehicle during rigorous use.