timjet

2023 F150 XLT, the 4 holes in the bed for cleats are not threaded. I bought 4 cleats from Amazon and the screws for the cleats won't attach because the holes are not threaded. I'm missing something.

js312

Indeed they are not. The Ford OEM cleats come with self tapping screws.

timjet

Thanks, so I've got to get some self tapping screws.

js312

Are you sure the ones you got aren't self tapping? I used an impact driver to drive mine in, just tightening with a torque wrench at the end.

bud150

The box material is not thick enough to tap useable threads imo, they use a style of self tapping fastener. Post a pic of the fasteners you have.

AHenry014

I tapped the holes on mine before before installation, though I still used the "self-tapping" screws. They are essentially standard 6mm x 1.25 bolts (I believe), with a slightly triangular cross section. I chucked the tap in my drill and made quick work of the 16 holes. The OE provided fasteners then went right in (I bought mine on amazon, so they are knock offs, but was provided the same triangular shaped self tappers).

In short, theyll go in without any prep, just be sure to use grease.

fatty 239

I did them by hand with a T-handle torx key so I would not snap any off. This can happen with a driver. No matter which method you use, drive them in and out several times before driving them all the way in. Use tiny bit of grease or some sort of spray lube. Never use the same screw more than once. Slightly overkill to do it by hand but if you break one you will be pissed. Cheap after market bolts that come with non OEM cleats can be an issue as far as breaking a bolt. I used OEM and they work perfectly. Good luck

henfield

The brackets that I bought on amazon came with all the parts including self tapping screws/bolts

StevenL

Do you have a link for the ones you bought? And are you still happy with them?

Crank Bait

I used some from Amazon. ASIN No. B0BNXCP4VD

These came with self-tapping screws. I used the included torx bit in my 18-volt Dewalt drill with a drop of oil on the threads. They went in easily! I used Oatey thread-cutting oil I had on hand but saw a guy use a smear of vaseline instead...equally effective.