Truck Vise Mount: DIY Install Guide For Your Truck

The demands of mobile repairs often necessitate robust and adaptable solutions, and a properly installed truck vise mount rises to meet this need. The Wilton company manufactures several bench vises whose utility can be extended into the field with a secure truck vise mount. This DIY install guide will equip truck owners and mobile mechanics with the knowledge to confidently affix such a mount. Ford truck owners, in particular, frequently seek this type of modification to enhance their vehicle’s functionality, transforming the truck bed into a mobile workshop. Correct installation, verified with reliable tools like a Torque wrench, ensures the vise and its mount provides a stable and safe platform for on-site projects.

Building the Ultimate Truck Vise Mount: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide

A truck vise mount adds incredible versatility to your work truck, turning it into a mobile workshop. Instead of heading back to the garage for every small repair or adjustment, you can tackle tasks right on the job site. This guide dives deep into crafting a robust and reliable truck vise mount. We’ll break down the process, ensuring your new setup is both secure and practical.

1. Understanding Your Needs and Options

Before you even think about picking up a wrench, it’s crucial to assess your specific needs. This groundwork will prevent headaches down the road.

• Vise Size and Type: What size vise do you plan to mount? A smaller vise is perfectly adequate for light-duty tasks, while larger, heavier-duty vises require a more substantial mounting system. Consider the jaw width and overall weight.
• Mounting Location: Where on your truck bed do you want the vise? Think about accessibility, available space, and potential obstructions. Options include the bed rails, the tailgate, or even a custom-built platform.
• Material Choices: Steel is the go-to choice for strength and durability. Consider the gauge (thickness) of the steel you plan to use. Thicker steel will provide better support, especially for heavier vises.

2. Essential Tools and Materials

Having the right tools at your disposal significantly simplifies the installation process and ensures a cleaner, safer outcome.

Tools:

• Welder (MIG or Stick, depending on your skill level)
• Angle Grinder with cutting and grinding discs
• Drill with various drill bits
• Measuring Tape
• Square
• Clamps
• Safety Glasses
• Welding Helmet and Gloves

Materials:

• Steel Plate (thickness determined by vise size and anticipated load)
• Steel Tubing or Angle Iron (for creating a frame or support structure)
• Bolts, Nuts, and Washers (grade 8 hardware recommended for strength)
• Primer and Paint (to prevent rust)

3. Designing Your Truck Vise Mount

This is where the real customization begins. Your design should address your specific needs and the chosen mounting location. Here are a few common design approaches:

• Bed Rail Mount: This typically involves fabricating a steel plate that clamps to the bed rails. The vise is then bolted to this plate.
• Tailgate Mount: Similar to the bed rail mount, but designed to attach to the tailgate. This can be particularly useful if you need a large work surface. (Consider tailgate weight capacity)
• Custom Platform: If you require a more elaborate setup, you can build a custom platform inside the truck bed. This offers more stability and can accommodate larger vises.

Regardless of the design you choose, it’s best to start with a sketch. This will give you a visual representation of your project and help you determine the necessary dimensions and materials.

4. Fabrication and Assembly

Once you have your design finalized, it’s time to start cutting, welding, and assembling your truck vise mount.

1. Cutting the Steel: Using an angle grinder, cut the steel plate and tubing to the specified dimensions. Take precise measurements to ensure accuracy.
2. Welding the Frame (if applicable): If your design involves a frame, carefully weld the steel tubing or angle iron together, ensuring strong, clean welds.
3. Attaching the Vise Plate: Weld the vise plate to the frame (if applicable), or directly to the bed rail clamps (if using a bed rail mount).
4. Drilling Bolt Holes: Drill bolt holes in the vise plate to match the mounting holes on your vise.
5. Deburring and Grinding: Use a grinding disc to smooth any sharp edges or rough welds.
6. Priming and Painting: Apply a coat of primer to prevent rust, followed by a coat of paint in your desired color.

5. Installation and Securing the Vise

With your truck vise mount fabricated and painted, the final step is to install it on your truck and securely attach the vise.

• Mounting the Base: Secure the base according to the chosen design (Clamping to bed rail, or attaching to tailgate)
• Securing the Vise: Align the vise with the pre-drilled holes on the mounting plate and use grade 8 bolts, nuts, and washers to fasten it tightly. Double-check to ensure that all bolts are properly torqued.
• Testing the Mount: Before using the vise for any serious work, test the mount by applying moderate pressure to the vise jaws. This will help you identify any potential weak points or instability.

6. Safety Considerations:

Always prioritize safety. Always use safety glasses, welding helmet and gloves during welding. Make sure area is clear when welding or grinding.

So there you have it! Installing a truck vise mount might seem daunting at first, but with a little elbow grease and this guide, you’ll be clamping down projects on your tailgate in no time. Now get out there, get wrenching, and enjoy the convenience of having a portable workstation wherever your truck takes you!