The DECKED Drawer System is engineered for simplicity, and this includes the installation process. One or two people can install a full-size or midsize Drawer System in about an hour with just a few tools — a 7/16” socket, 3/8" socket, crescent wrench, 3/16” hex wrench, 7/32” hex wrench, and a power drill if you’re feeling brave. Or, one of 800+ DECKED Partners across the country can install your system for a small fee so you’re ready to hit the ground running.
That’s the short answer, but let’s take a deeper look at everything you need to get a DECKED Drawer System installed into your rig. Spoiler alert: it’s not a whole lot, and a big part of that is thanks to our all-star Product team. Not only are they fully stocked with ivy-league degrees, but they actually know how to use them. Outside of insecurity, why are we pointing this out? Well, it’s because developing an intuitive product doesn’t just stop at how a customer uses it — it also includes how easy it is to install.
The product not only needs to work; it needs to last.
It not only needs to last; it also needs to be manufacturable.
It not only needs to be manufacturable; it also needs to be installable.
It not only needs to be installable; it also needs to be installable by humans.
It’s like a giant Jenga puzzle where you always have to start at the bottom. As soon as one piece falters, you knock it all down, and start rebuilding. That’s why we’re extremely proud to say that installing a DECKED Drawer System is pretty simple. If you have a friend, about an hour, and know what a socket wrench is, you’re going to be fine.
All this is to say, we strive for intuitive product design at every level, installation included, because we want our customers to be as familiar with their system as we are.
Tools of the Trade
As for how to actually get it done, we have a great installation video for both the Midsize Drawer System and Full-Size Drawer System. They’re a great chance for the marketing folks to pretend like they know what they’re talking about, as well as a simple step-by-step guide for getting your truck to its full potential. Paired with some crystal clear instructions included with every Drawer System, we’ve taken all of the headaches out of installation.
To boil the process down to it’s simplest form, all you have to do is unpack the box, lay out your Drawer System, and start putting it together with just a few simple tools that’d be right at home in an IKEA instruction manual that’s actually understandable. A few screws later, install the handle, and start assembling the System into your truck bed with simple, but secure turnbuckles. Then, a few more screws and you’re set for life.
So, what about tools? Chances are, you probably have everything you need to install your Drawer System laying around your garage.
Here are the essentials:
- 7/16” socket wrench
- 3/8" socket wrench Crescent wrench
- 3/16” hex wrench (Included)
- 7/32” hex wrench (Included)
If you have those — or pick them up for a few bucks at your local hardware store — you and a buddy can have your Drawer System installed in about an hour, including beer breaks. Hell, the real pros here at DECKED have gotten it down to a science and can manage an installation in about 25 minutes without breaking a sweat. Except for our Florida folks. They’re always sweaty.
One thing worth noting: a power drill is a timesaver, but it needs to be handled with care. Our Drawer Systems are made with high-impact HDPE resin, which is incredibly strong, and each one is manufactured for a precise fit to your specific truck bed. However, it can be pretty easy to over-crank on the bolts and strip out the brass inserts, which is why we highly recommend using an adjustable drill on the lower-third power settings so this doesn’t happen. Tighten to a snug fit and let it be. The system will be just fine, we promise.
Go To The Pros
Do you get an invisible badge of honor for installing your own Drawer System? Maybe. But, we also know that our customers are busy getting stuff done and don’t always have the time, space, and tools to install their Drawer System.
That’s why we’ve equipped more than 800+ DECKED Partners across the country to knock out an installation for you. These fine folks have been trained in the fine art of Drawer Systems, and can probably tell you the thread count on every bolt and screw that keeps it secured to your truck bed. If you’re short on time, tools, or general motivation, they can handle your install in no time flat for a small fee.
On top of that, they can answer any questions you may have about the installation process, how to make the most out of your Drawer System, and exactly how many cans of Milwaukee’s Best will fit in your Drawers. They’re true professionals. If you have an aftermarket accessory shop near you, then you probably have a DECKED Partner who’s jonesing for that Drawer System install fix. Not sure who your friendly neighborhood DECKED Dealer is? No sweat. Just head to our Dealer Locator and you can track down a pro near you in just a few clicks.
The "What If's"
The majority of DECKED Drawer Systems install easily across the board, but there are a few instances where you may need a little more elbow grease and know-how to get your system up and running. For instance, specialty systems like the Drawer System for Vans and Police Interceptor Units may require some drilling to ensure a secure fit. Many customers still choose to handle the installation themselves, and we include specific directions for these unique cases, but we recommend giving your DECKED Dealer a call if you have any questions or concerns about the installation process.
At DECKED, we start every day focusing on our customers. Sure, it’s nice to make game-changing Drawer Systems that improve your life from the garage to just about anywhere — but it’s meaningless if those products aren’t intuitive and easy to install for just about anyone. If you have questions or concerns about what your installation process will look like, it never hurts to ask. Whether you call a DECKED Dealer or one of our esteemed colleagues in Customer Service, there’s a 100% chance you’ll come away with an answer to get you on the road faster than you can say, “What the hell is a socket set?”
