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"The PIERCE Dump Kit was very strongly made and well-constructed. I was very pleased with it. I thought PIERCE was pleasant and professional to deal with."
Mike from Virginia
Installation Notes
TOOLS NEEDED FOR INSTALLATION
- Chain Hoist or Props
- 3/8” and 1/2” Portable Electric Drill and Bits
- Impact Wrench
- Hoist or Cherry Picker
- Metal Cutting Saw
- Drop Light
- Extension Cord
- Hammer
- Sockets
- Screwdrivers
- Wrenches
- Grinder
- Welder
- Cutting torch
- C-Clamps
- Vise-grips
- Tape Measure
- Grommets
- Zip Ties
- One Hole Straps
- 6 quarts of Dextron 3 or Hydraulic Fluid
- Red and Black Electrical Tape
- Cardboard
- Safety Glasses
- First Aid Kit
- Gloves
- Teflon Tape
INSTALLATION CHECKLIST
Now that you have decided on the right PIERCE dump kit it will need to be installed. The installation can be done by yourself or a trusted installer in your area. Here is an overview to help you decide who will undertake the installation:
- Read the installation manual before proceeding.
- Disconnect the vehicle battery before welding.
- All wires must be supported by the truck frame. Wires connected to the bed are hazardous.
- When raising the bed, use an overhead hoist or body props. Be aware, injury can occur if the bed is not properly secured. Never leave the bed unattended when in the raised by a hoist or body props.
- Only weld at the rear of the chassis frame. Do not weld anywhere forward of the rear spring hangers in order to prevent cracks from developing in the frame and possible weak spots during the welding process.
- Never exceed the weight limit of your equipment. Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for more information.
- Install a safety cut-off switch to prevent electrical shorts.
- Secure all electrical lines every 12″ – 16″ with zip ties.
- Installation of the 200 amp breaker is required.
WHO WILL INSTALL THE DUMPKIT?
Now that you have decided on the right PIERCE dump kit it will need to be installed. The installation can be done by yourself or a trusted installer in your area. Here is an overview to help you decide who will undertake the installation:
SELF INSTALLED
If you choose to do the installation yourself, the following are expertise required to complete the job.
- Mechanical – You will have to follow our manual’s directions and use mechanical skills in the event the directions do not cover specific considerations. For example, some bed years have components like the fuel filler that may need to be moved so that the bed can close and not flatten the filler.
- Electrical – Power and ground connections will be routed directly to the battery Hydraulics – The hydraulic pump will be installed, fluid added to the reservoir and wired.
- Welding – Some cutting of the rear frame hinges may be required during installation. We recommend following all safety procedures that are listed in the manual; viewing all dump kit related videos; having an extra pair of hands when lifting the bed and steel parts. Call us with any questions before or during installation. We are happy to help.
INSTALLATION SHOP CRITERIA
If you choose not to do the hydraulic dump kit installation yourself, we have found body shops and machine/welder shops typically have the expertise required. Basically, any shop installing flat beds has the expertise.
The key to finding a reputable shop is research. While the following criteria does not guarantee a positive experience, it can help identify shops with experience and a history of good work.
There are many resources for best practices when choosing the right body shop you can check out our favorites here: Angie’s list, “Advice on finding a reputable body auto body shop” and The ASE, “How to choose the right body shop”.
1. Research | Who is available in your area?
- Google is your best bet when looking for a local welder or fabricator with experience. Search keywords along with your location to find one near you.
- Also, look up their standing with the Better Business Bureau and if they have any complaints filed.
2. Reputation | Word-Of-Mouth
- Speak to colleagues and friends for recommendations.
- Read the Google or Yelp reviews.
3. Certifications | Is the shop is certified by one or more of the following?
- The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence or ASE
- The Automotive Service Association or ASA
- Many states and large metropolitan areas have their own associations or technical colleges.
4. Insurance | Does the shop carry the following insurance?
- Garage Liability Insurance
- Garage Keepers Insurance
Whether you choose to install the dump kit yourself or hire someone else, PIERCE offers complete instructions and numerous videos to assist during the process.