2015 Ford F-150 Bed Bolts: Why Torx Plus (T50P) Is Not the Same as T50
Your F-150 Bed Uses Torx Plus, Not Standard Torx
If you’re trying to remove the bed on a 2015 Ford F-150 and your standard T50 Torx bit feels loose or sloppy, you’ve discovered the issue: Ford doesn’t use standard Torx heads on these bolts. The six main bed bolts use Torx Plus (often called T50P or IP50), which looks similar to standard Torx at first glance but has a completely different drive design.
What’s the Difference Between Torx and Torx Plus?
This matters because confusing the two can strip your bolts or the bit itself.
Geometry and Drive Design
Standard Torx features a six-pointed star with deep, sharp recesses and a 15-degree drive angle. Torx Plus also has six points, but the lobes are flatter and broader, with more vertical sidewalls. The key difference is that Torx Plus uses a 0-degree drive angle, which increases the contact area between the bit and the fastener.
This design means Torx Plus can handle much higher torque loads without the bit slipping (called camming out) or wearing down.
Compatibility (And Why It Matters)
You can technically use a standard Torx driver on a Torx Plus screw—it will fit and turn initially. But it won’t be a tight fit. Under load, the looser engagement can cause:
- Bit slipping and stripping the fastener head
- The bit walking out of the drive under torque
- Damage to both the bolt and the tool
This is exactly what you experienced with the sloppy fit.
Ford Bed Bolt Specifications for the 2015 F-150
Correct Tool
You need a Torx Plus bit, specifically T50P (sometimes labeled IP50). Make sure the bit you buy is explicitly labeled as Torx Plus, not standard Torx.
Torque Specification
Ford specifies a torque of 59 foot-pounds for the bed bolts. This is relatively moderate torque, but you must use the correct tool to reach it safely without stripping.
Critical: One-Time-Use Bolts
Ford’s bed bolts are torque-to-yield fasteners, which means they stretch slightly during installation to create a secure connection. Once removed, they cannot be reused reliably. If you’re removing the bed, budget for replacement bolts—they’re not expensive compared to a stripped bolt that won’t come out.
Bed Removal Steps
- Disconnect the battery. This prevents electrical shorts while you’re unplugging harnesses.
- Unplug wiring harnesses. Disconnect tail lights, fuel filler neck, and any other electrical connections to the bed.
- Apply penetrating oil. Spray PB Blaster or a similar penetrating oil on the bolts and let them soak, especially if the truck has been exposed to weather. Rust can make them very difficult to remove.
- Remove the six main bolts. Use your Torx Plus bit (T50P) and a torque wrench or impact driver. Do not force—if a bolt is stuck, apply more penetrating oil and wait longer.
- Disconnect remaining connections. Check for any ground straps or additional fasteners holding the bed.
- Support and lift the bed. Use a jack or helper to safely lift the bed away from the frame.
Why Ford Chose Torx Plus for Bed Bolts
Torx Plus was designed for high-torque applications in automotive manufacturing. The superior load-carrying capacity and resistance to wear make it ideal for fasteners that experience vibration, temperature cycling, and load variation over time. Pickup bed bolts handle significant stress from payload weight, acceleration, and braking, so the upgrade from standard Torx makes sense.
Shopping for Replacement Bolts
If you don’t have OEM parts available, aftermarket manufacturers like Dorman produce compatible bed bolt kits for Ford F-150s. Verify the year and model fit before ordering. Some DIYers reuse the bolts carefully (re-torquing them), but Ford’s specification is clear: replace them.
Avoiding Future Problems
Once you have the correct Torx Plus bit, the job is straightforward. Make sure your bit is in good condition—a rounded or worn bit will slip. If you’re using a socket set, buy a quality Torx Plus socket rather than relying on a multipurpose bit holder.