Replacement Turnbuckles That Won't Loosen While Driving for F-150 With 2001 Four Wheel Hawk Camper

Question:

Hello. I have a 2001 Fourwheel Hawk Camper that I attach to my F150 via truck bed mounts. The supplied turnbuckles loosen over time as I drive requiring me to pull over and check/retighten. Do you have any suggestions? I need something around 12 inches or so Thanks

asked by: Maurice H

Expert Reply:

If you need a length of 12" I recommend the TorkLift Basic SpringLoad Turnbuckles # TLS9000. These have an adjustable length of 9" - 13". They have a spring-loaded design to reduce stress and won't loosen up over time as you drive. You're pretty limited at that length so I would double checking the measurement.

Something like the # LC182897 from the HappiJac Qwik-Load Turnbuckles # LC182895 you looked at would be a great option that will remain secure and is easy to adjust with the levers. However, the minimum reach is 16-1/2". The TorkLift FastGun # TLS9520 also has lever action handles and a reach of 14" - 21-1/2" which is a little closer to the measurement you mentioned.

expert reply by: Robin H

Maurice

2/16/2024

Quick follow up: do I need all 4 corners to use spring loaded turnbuckles or just front or just back?

Robin H.

2/20/2024

@Maurice I would replace in pairs so front, back, or all four. It isn't a problem to only replace the front or the back though if only two are loosening. If they are all the same style I would go ahead and replace them all to avoid the same problem later on.