I understand there are three extra studs per side, but that’s not the point. Running boards simply do not need the extra mounting point, hence the stock ones do not come with them. The fact that guy was going to deny future warranty claim due to this is bogus.

 

Quick update. I stopped by a local Ford dealership and talk to a parts person. He couldn't help me. I went and found three F-150 Supercab's on the lot and crawled under them. All of them looked just like mine with no studs for the middle bracket. Two of the trucks were basic XL work trucks and one as an 2X4 STX. I'm going to call GoRhino tomorrow and have another conversation.

 

Ford may have decided to cut some more costs and leave the middle bracket mounting studs out since the middle bracket isn't used on F-150's. Not to hijack the thread, but I recently put on some raptor boards, and since they do not have the third mount I was able to purchase two extra mounts from Ford and install them with some 3/8" flush head bolts.

 

What is the benefit of that? I have Raptor boards as well, but don't feel the need for any extra support... Not bashing what you did, just asking why you did that.

 

Anyone know the correct torque specs for mounting brackets, or is hand tight good enough? I don't want to snap a screw off by overtightening.

 

I used a lock washer (and anti-seize) and got them hand tight pretty snug. Just don't stand on the ratchet with all your weight. Just pretty snug and check them in a couple days. If you're really worried, use loctite instead of anti-seize.

 

16 lb-ft per the service manual. Don't forget the plastic washer between the bracket and the body, for the purposes of isolation.

 

Interesting are there plastic washers on there from the factory?

 

I don't believe so, from the factory. If you're adding aftermarket, there should be.

 

I don’t know why a plastic washer is necessary. I wouldn’t put one on. Plastic can deform, become brittle, and may lead to the nut loosening. Stainless washers work fine.