Drilling into composite bed

I need to add some D-rings on the side of my bed near the molded-in 2x4 slots. This is to hold some gas cans so no heavy weight at all.

It doesn't look like I can get to the back of the bed to put in a backing washer or plate. Is there any reason I cannot use a threadsert?

Or is anything like this going to void my warranty?

2023 1794

 

I drilled into the side to mount a pelican box using a threadsert. Holding up pretty well.

 

Only thing I see voiding on your warranty is if the bed cracks where you drilled into it, so drill away. Also if you crawl under the truck you do have decent access to the side of the bed. Just poke your head inside your fender and you can nearly see the entire bed side (the front of the bed where it meets the cab not so much).

 

People have recommended using a stepped drill bit instead of a regular bit as they seem to reduce the chance of cracks occurring while drilling.

I have a set of Rago bed stiffeners I'll be installing soon and that was in the instructions.

 

If you're worried about a nutsert failure you could use toggle bolts instead to give the D-rings more backside surface area to hold onto. Toggler and E-Z Ancor make some pretty good ones that don't require drilling such a large hole like traditional toggles do plus the anchor stays in place vice a traditional toggle being a one-time use.

 

You can use 3/16" SS toggle bolts each rated for 65# or 1/4" for 90#.
If I was going to secure anything of merit I would use SS toggles.

 

Regarding toggle bolts, has anyone actually used them in a Toyota composite bed?

 

I'm going with a threadsert. Thanks for all the replies.

 

I'm sure someone has,maybe no one here but I'm sure it has been done.
You had mentioned your going to mount D rings for fastening cans,empty or full I would recommend a secondary nylon strap to compinsate for triple multiplying force of inertia.
Good luck and post some pic's when you're done.