A BEDSLIDE is one of the smartest upgrades you can make to your truck. Simple but ingenious, it turns your bed into a giant sliding drawer—giving you full access to everything inside without crawling, climbing, or contorting. Whether you’re on a jobsite, setting up camp, or just grabbing gear, it saves you time and hassle. It can even double as a temporary bench when you need both hands free for a task.
Truck owners who typically buy these units aren't the type to shy away from a DIY task. However, the installation process of a BEDSLIDE does call for modification to the truck bed, so if you're not comfortable with that kind of job, consider calling in a pro.
That said, the job itself isn't overly complicated and only calls for a few simple hand tools. Below, we walk you through the step-by-step install, including tips and common “gotchas” that aren’t always obvious from the manual.
What You’ll Need
Installing a BEDSLIDE in a truck bed isn't the most demanding on your tool collection. In fact, you should be able to tackle the job with equipment you already have around the shop.
For this job, you’ll need:
- Allen keys
- Drill & drill bits
- Sharpie pen
- Tape measure
- 1/2-inch socket wrench
- 1/2-inch open-end wrench
In the instruction manual, it's stated that you only need a 1/2-inch drill bit, but we recommend using smaller bits leading up to that final bit to ensure you make a clean hole and avoid burning up drill bits. Using a center punch to mark your drill points can make the job cleaner and easier, especially if you’re working with a smooth surface, like a painted truck bed. If you’re working with a spray-in bed liner or on a dark-colored truck, you should also grab a silver Sharpie, as it's easier to see in these instances.
You will also need a helping hand to get this job done. BEDSLIDE units are heavy and can be awkward to maneuver as a result. You will want a friend to help you lift and move it between various steps in the process.
Note for Aluminum Beds: If your truck has an aluminum bed (like many newer Ford F-Series models), the installation process is slightly different and requires additional steps to avoid galvanic corrosion. Make sure to follow these aluminum bed instructions (PDF) instead of the standard steps in this guide.
Prep the Bed
Before you get started, make sure your truck bed is clean and clear. Remove any gear or loose items, then sweep out dirt and debris—or use a pressure washer if it needs a deeper clean. Just be sure the bed is completely dry before moving on. You’ll also want to take out any drop-in liners or bed mats, as BEDSLIDE is designed to mount directly to the truck’s metal bed for a stable, secure fit.
How to Install a BEDSLIDE on Your Truck
Once you’ve rounded up the tools and supplies, you’re ready to move on to installation. Before you dive in, be sure to read the official BEDSLIDE installation manual thoroughly—those instructions are your primary source. Our guide is here to supplement that process by breaking down the steps into plain language and offering context where you might have questions.
1. Assemble the BEDSLIDE
Start by assembling the BEDSLIDE unit outside of your truck. You’ll only need an Allen key for this part, and BEDSLIDE has done a lot to make it straightforward. That said, it’s worth slowing down and taking a few preparatory steps to set yourself up for success:
Inspect the contents of the kit to ensure you have all parts listed in the manual and none have suffered shipping damage. If anything’s missing or looks off, contact support@bedslide.com before moving forward.
Lay everything out on a clean, padded surface—like a moving blanket or the cardboard packaging—to avoid scratching the powder-coated parts.
Read through the assembly section of the manual before you start so you’re not thrown off by anything. For example, some components, like the corner towers and side towers, may be stacked or oriented upside down for shipping and won’t look like their final position on the unit.
Assembly includes installing the mount blocks, corner towers, side towers, rails, and D-rings onto the main platform. These parts go on in a specific order, so be sure to follow your provided BEDSLIDE manual closely and double-check each step before tightening things down.
2. Center the BEDSLIDE
Once the Bedslide is fully assembled, you’re ready to mount it in your truck. You’ll need a second person to help lift and place the unit into the bed.
Use a tape measure to center the BEDSLIDE between the wheel wells, making sure there is a 1.5-inch gap between the BEDSLIDE frame and the bulkhead, and an even gap between the BEDSLIDE and the wheel wells. Take your time here—accurate placement will make the rest of the install much easier.
Before proceeding, check tailgate clearance. The BEDSLIDE should not make contact with the tailgate when closed or when fully extended. If you’re running into clearance issues here—or your tailgate has an interior step—you may need BEDSLIDE’s Lift Block Kit (Part #BSA-SPACEBLKIT).
3. Make Your Marks
When you’re happy with the location of the BEDSLIDE, it’s time to make the marks for the mounting locations. Carefully slide the BEDSLIDE out to reveal the mounting tabs on the frame below. Use your Sharpie to mark the locations of the mounting holes you will need to drill in the bed.
4. Set Your Mounting Points
After the marks are made, remove the BEDSLIDE so you can drill the mounting hole locations. Before you start, just double-check under the bed to make sure you won’t hit any components like wiring, fuel lines, or the spare tire.
If everything’s clear, begin drilling at the points you marked. On painted surfaces, use a center punch to make an indent first—it’ll help keep the drill bit from wandering. Start with a small bit and work your way up slowly to a 1/2-inch drill bit to make clean, accurate holes.
5. Bolt It Down
Now you’re ready to install the rivnuts, secure the BEDSLIDE, and finish the job. To install each rivnut, thread a bolt through the rivnut tool and into the rivnut anchor, then insert that assembly into a drilled hole. Hold the rivnut tool steady with your wrench while tightening the bolt. This will compress the rivnut from underneath and lock it into place. Make sure each one sits flush before moving to the next.
Do not overtighten or use impact tools—you’ll risk stripping the rivnut or breaking the bolt.
Once all the rivnuts are installed, position the BEDSLIDE back into place and align the mounting holes. Secure it using the supplied bolts. There’s no specific torque spec, but “snug” will do just fine. If you’re worried about the bolts backing out over time, a little blue threadlocker is always a safe bet.
After that, simply remove the protective film—and just like that, you’re ready to roll.
Final Install and Operation Tips
Once your BEDSLIDE is bolted down, take a few minutes to double-check your work Go around and check all of the mounting points, side rails, and anything else that’s bolted down to ensure it is held snugly in place. Then slide the unit all the way out and back in to make sure everything moves smoothly before loading it up with tools and gear—trust us, this is much easier to adjust now than later.
A properly installed BEDSLIDE should not rattle or vibrate while you drive. If it does, this is a good sign that something wasn't bolted down properly during installation or has since come loose. Track down the source and fix it before it becomes a bigger issue.
Keep in mind that it’s normal to have to periodically retighten the hardware on your BEDSLIDE unit. Nuts and bolts loosen slightly over time due to road vibration and repeated use, so plan to check and retighten yours every few months as part of your regular truck maintenance.
You should also clean and lubricate the BEDSLIDE’s slide tracks every three to six months. Dirt and debris will build up over time, which can lead to stiffness or even premature wear. By cleaning and reapplying lube, you ensure the unit is in for the long haul. As for what to use, you will want to avoid oil-based lubricants, as they attract dirt. Instead, you should use a dry lubricant or silicone spray on the tracks.
Find Your Bedslide at Parts Via
Whatever your BEDSLIDE needs, Parts Via is here to help. More than selling you the unit, we’ll help you pick the right one.
Weekend Warriors: BEDSLIDE S
Lightweight, easy to handle, and built to carry up to 1,000 lbs, the BEDSLIDE S is a customizable base model. Add only what you need—TRAX RAILS, cargo dividers, or other accessories—to build the perfect setup for your gear.
Everyday Haulers: BEDSLIDE 1000 Classic
Need a few more built-in features? The BEDSLIDE 1000 Classic delivers the same 1,000-lb capacity, but adds an integrated perimeter guardrail kit to secure cargo, an optional sleek black finish, and an extended warranty.
Pros & Hard Users: BEDSLIDE Contractor
Built for professionals, sportsmen and outdoor enthusiasts, the BEDSLIDE Contractor boasts a 1,500-lb weight capacity and advanced securing features like higher guardrails, integrated accessory mounting channels, and heavy-duty tie-down cleats.
Want more reach? Max Extension versions stretch up to 78" or more in length.
Industrial Strength: BEDSLIDE Heavy Duty
If your truck is more tool than toy, the BEDSLIDE Heavy Duty gives you a 2,000-lb capacity plus all the rugged features you need for commercial use.
Still not sure which model fits your truck—or your lifestyle? Call Parts Via’s customer service team. We’ll help you make the right pick, connect you with professional installers, and even arrange in-store pickup to save on shipping.
Whatever you’re hauling, Parts Via helps you pull it off.