Installing the Diamondback tonneau

6488 Views 6 Replies 7 Participants Last post by RoadRdr, Aug 21, 2018

EighteenMPG

Discussion Starter · Apr 4, 2017

If you've got one or done the install, I want to know how the fitting fixes to the truck so the fixed middle section attaches.

IOW, what is required beyond just bolting something on to existing holes? Did Diamondback adapt to this so fasteners are removed, parts fitted on with same fasteners, or longer supplied bolts?

Is drilling required? Is tapping required?

My SE version of the top is in at the dealer, and they want $100 for doing the install. I've likely got all the required tools, as I do my own maintenance on a BMW motorcycle and have all the metric gear plus torque wrenches.

The big trucks like Ford, Dodge, etc., all have top-edge rails that make clamp-on fittings easy. Not so with the Ridge.

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noside85

· #2 · Apr 4, 2017 (Edited)

It was very, very easy to install this. You need a torx bit to install the short rails, I used an allen wrench. I did end up stripping one so it became a process. Line up the rails and reinstall the same OEM bolts.

After that I just used a socket wrench for the C-clamps onto the rails and middle platform. Don't fully tighten until everything is in place and minor adjustments done. Afterwards just hand tighten, and tighten it with a wrench two turns or so.

You need to redo the locking rods, an allen wrench of proper size is provided. Also a small socket wrench to adjust the up/down part of the locking rods.

If I had to do it again, it would take me about 30 minutes to install at the most.

No drilling or tapping required.

My first tonneau installation, I would hate myself if I had to pay someone else to do it. I am not a mechanic by any means and found it simple to do. Instructions are dead on and clear.

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hawk71959

· #3 · Apr 4, 2017

Here is the link to the Install Docs. Big items to work is getting it lined up... which you can do... and following the various threads on sealing the front corners which is needed for any cover. MAny good post on how to install and work this cover...

Here is the link for the Manuals....

MANUAL for RIDGELINE

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bhaskett

· #4 · Dec 9, 2017 (Edited)

Updated link...
https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1...uide-honda-ridgeline.pdf?15143266934200324389

How does the Diamondback function with the bed trunk? Any conflict?

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DaveZ

· #5 · Aug 15, 2018

I installed my Diamondback SE yesterday on my '17 Ridgeline. One thing of note, when mounting the clamps, the instructions say this: "Loosely affix the center panel to the truck by finger-tightening a cap clamp at each of the four interior corners of the underside of the center panel."

Using the 4 corners will not work as the cab-side clamps will interfere with the gas struts opening and closing. I contacted support and they said I needed to mount the clamps inboard, closer to the centerline of the center section. I think the second photo above shows this - essentially the two clamps are close together, but that's what tech support said to do. I hope this saves someone some trouble.

Also, on a side note, on two of the four struts, when I swung the small lever to release the clamp so I could connect it to the ball joint, the part of the lever under the clamp broke! Twice! Diamondback is at least going to send me two new struts.

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UnicornKaz

· #6 · Aug 21, 2018 (Edited)

DaveZ said:
I installed my Diamondback SE yesterday on my '17 Ridgeline. One thing of note, when mounting the clamps, the instructions say this: "Loosely affix the center panel to the truck by finger-tightening a cap clamp at each of the four interior corners of the underside of the center panel."

Using the 4 corners will not work as the cab-side clamps will interfere with the gas struts opening and closing. I contacted support and they said I needed to mount the clamps inboard, closer to the centerline of the center section. I think the second photo above shows this - essentially the two clamps are close together, but that's what tech support said to do. I hope this saves someone some trouble.

Also, on a side note, on two of the four struts, when I swung the small lever to release the clamp so I could connect it to the ball joint, the part of the lever under the clamp broke! Twice! Diamondback is at least going to send me two new struts.

Yes...center piece...clamps goes on the inside corners (spread out far as you can...not closed together...inside rectangle)

Nobody said the clamps have to be straight...it only matter at the contact clamping points, which I'd spread mine out all the way to the corners...and the bolt ends are angled towards each other on the inside away from any obstructions..etc.

You can slight see mine is slightly angled inward in this picture...but the clamping points are spread out as far as possible for rigidity..etc.

~~~

As the shocks/struts clamp/ball joint goes...slide to the middle is full released !!...all the way to either side is LOCKED. !

https://www.ridgelineownersclub.com...ack-se-17-ridgeline-rugged-black-edition.html

https://www.ridgelineownersclub.com...e-parts-modifications/153049-macgyvering.html

:nerd:

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RoadRdr

· #7 · Aug 21, 2018

My two center clamps are very close to each other. The other suggestion I followed when I installed mine was to leave it closed for a few days so the rubber seals could settle into place.

Also, I have only had to remove mine once to haul a very large item. I marked the spots for the center clamps. But not as thoroughly as I should have. If I need to remove it again someday I will make several well-marked spots. It will make the reinstallation easier since the cover corners should line up more closely.

Good luck with it. It has been flawless for me.

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