I installed my bed extender without a problem. For some reason I feel like those large bolts were "self tapping"... but it was a while ago. I do remember it was a pretty easy install though.
Have you actually tried to insert the bolt just by itself. The threads are generally covered in paint. Interesting though that some would be threaded and others not.
Yeah. The hole is way bigger around than the bolts that worked in my 2016. It's just a hole stamped in the aluminum and I can stick my pinky in to feel there is nothing in there.
This is what it needs to look like to install the bed extender. It’s unfortunate that FORD sells the accessory but doesn’t warn you it may or may not be compatible with your truck
I installed mine with nuts and large washers this weekend. I looked all over for suitable rivetnuts/nutserts but couldn't find any that I thought would work. It works fine this way, but I'd much rather have the threaded hole to facilitate easy removal of the extender if needed without having to remove the tail lights.
I used the two bolts that came with the bed extender and bought two nuts and two washers from Home Depot. For each side, I removed the tail light and put the bolt through the extender into the hole. I put the washer and nut on the back side, tightened it, and reinstalled the tail light.
