Best Camper Tie Downs For 1993 Ford F-350 Hauling 8-1/2' Vanguard Truck Camper

Updated 11/12/2026 | Published 11/11/2026

Products Featured in This Question

Brophy Stake Pocket Mounted Camper Tie-Downs - Bed Mount - Qty 4

(375)

$143.25

TorkLift Basic SpringLoad Turnbuckles for Camper Tie-Downs - Qty 2

(131)

$135.25

Question:

Hello! I am interested in the brophy stake pocket tie downs, I am looking to haul a late 70’s wood construction solid wall vanguard bed camper about 1,400-1,800lbs, 8.5 feet in my 1993 ford f350. The bed of the ford has a reinforcing aluminum bed edge protector rail which covers the top edge of each side of the bed, and holes cut to expose the stake pockets. I assume this reinforces to brophy tie downs. My question is this: are the brophy stake pocket tie downs part TDSF appropriate for this setup? Additionally, which turn buckles should I get? I have heard they should be sprung Because the older vanguard camper has eye bolts into a wood substructure, and springs would help cushion any bumps or hard stops on those eye bolts. All the best

asked by: Marshall M

Expert Reply:

Hey Marshall, welcome back! For your 1993 Ford F-350 hauling an 8-1/2' Vanguard truck camper, I do not recommend the Brophy Stake Pocket Tie-Downs # TDSF. Those are designed for campers up to 8' long, so your Vanguard exceeds their recommended size. While your aluminum bed rail protectors may provide some additional reinforcement, they don't change that limitation.

For your setup, I'd recommend going with frame-mounted TorkLift camper tie-downs instead. You're also absolutely right about wanting spring-loaded turnbuckles, especially with an older wood-framed camper. The TorkLift Basic SpringLoad Turnbuckles # TLS9000 are a great option because their built-in springs help absorb road shock and reduce stress on the camper's attachment points. You'll need two sets to secure all four corners, and I'd also inspect those older eye bolts and the wood they're anchored into before installing everything.

Does your F-350 have an 8' bed, and does it have running boards or an aftermarket trailer hitch? With those details, I can help you find the correct frame-mounted tie-downs for your truck.

expert reply by: Jesse M