RFI TLM-FR Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Z Guard Bracket - Vehicle-Specific 16mm Hole Fender Mount for Ford Ranger T6 2012+ with Dual-Side Installation and Professional Antenna Mounting

RFI TLM-FR Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Z Guard Bracket - Vehicle-Specific 16mm Hole Fender Mount for Ford Ranger T6 2012+ with Dual-Side Installation and Professional Antenna Mounting

Achieve secure professional antenna mounting on Ford Ranger T6 series with RFI TLM-FR Heavy Duty Z Guard Bracket—featuring vehicle-specific design engineered exclusively for Ford Ranger T6 (2012 onwards) front guard fitment on driver or passenger side, robust 1.6mm stainless steel construction providing durable corrosion-resistant mounting platform for UHF CB antennas and communication equipment, innovative Z Guard bracket design offsetting antenna away from bodywork preventing interference and providing optimal mounting geometry, standard 16mm antenna mounting hole accommodating conventional UHF antenna bases with threaded stud configurations, unique fender mount installation utilizing existing middle body panel bolt on either driver or passenger side guard eliminating drilling holes in vehicle bodywork, custom-bendable design enabling installer adjustment matching specific antenna requirements and optimizing mounting angle for individual installations, generous dimensions (50mm width × 130mm length) providing substantial mounting strength and versatile positioning options, professional-grade stainless steel resisting rust and corrosion in Australian coastal and outback environments, dual-side compatibility offering installation flexibility for driver-side or passenger-side mounting based on radio placement and cable routing preferences, versatile mounting suitable for standard UHF CB antennas including spring bases and fixed-mount configurations, and proven RFI quality engineering delivering reliable antenna mounting solution for Australia's popular mid-size 4WD ute.

Product Overview

Stainless steel fender mount bracket. Unique design to allow fitment on the front guard of Ford Ranger T6 series.

This 1.6mm stainless steel fender mount bracket is designed to fit Ford Ranger T6. The bracket is 130mm long, 50mm wide with 16mm hole. Designed to be fitted to the middle bolt along either drivers or passengers side. Slight custom bending of the bracket is recommended to suit the antenna being installed.

Key Features

Vehicle-Specific Ford Ranger T6 Series Fitment - Precision-engineered design exclusively for Ford Ranger T6 series (2011/2012 onwards) front guard ensuring proper fitment, optimal antenna positioning, and reliable mounting on Australia's popular mid-size 4WD ute. Vehicle-specific engineering advantages: bracket contours match Ranger T6 guard geometry, mounting hole position aligns with factory middle panel bolt location, Z Guard offset dimension optimized for Ranger bodywork clearance, bracket length and width proportioned for Ranger fender area without interference with headlight, grille, or bonnet operation. T6 series identification: third-generation Ranger introduced 2011/2012 as global platform shared with Mazda BT-50, distinctive styling featuring bold grille, sculpted guards, modern aerodynamic design, continues in production through current PX/PXII/PXIII iterations (2012-2015 PX, 2015-2018 PXII, 2018+ PXIII) all utilizing compatible T6 platform bodywork. Professional vehicle-specific brackets eliminate fitment guesswork compared to universal brackets: no trial-and-error positioning, no custom fabrication required, proven installation method tested on actual Ranger vehicles, mounting instructions specific to Ranger installation procedure. TLM-FR compatibility spans T6 variants: Ranger XL, XLS, XLT, Wildtrak, Raptor trim levels share common guard panels enabling universal T6 bracket fitment, commercial cab-chassis and dual-cab pickup configurations both compatible. Ranger popularity drives accessory demand: strong sales throughout Asia-Pacific region, extensive commercial and recreational use across mining, agricultural, trades, touring applications, proven bracket design with widespread Ranger owner adoption.

Robust 1.6mm Stainless Steel Construction - Heavy-duty 1.6mm thickness stainless steel provides substantial mounting strength supporting tall UHF antennas during highway travel, off-road vibration, and wind loading conditions. Material thickness significance: 1.6mm represents heavy-duty construction compared to lightweight universal brackets (typically 1.0-1.2mm thickness), increased thickness provides rigidity preventing bracket flexing under antenna wind loads, robust construction minimizes vibration-induced movement maintaining secure antenna mounting, heavy-duty design suitable for long antennas (6-9 feet) common in outback communications requiring maximum range. Stainless steel material benefits: excellent corrosion resistance in coastal salt spray environments where Ranger commonly operated (fishing, beach access, marine industries), superior durability in outback dust and high-temperature conditions typical of mining, agricultural, and remote area applications, maintains structural integrity through Australian temperature extremes from tropical heat to alpine cold, resists degradation from vehicle washing chemicals, road salt, and environmental contamination. Professional-grade construction ensures long-term reliability: bracket withstands years of outdoor exposure without rust deterioration, maintains mounting security through repeated antenna installations and removals, supports antenna weight and dynamic loading during vehicle operation. Stainless steel provides non-magnetic properties avoiding interference with compass navigation or antenna performance—critical for vehicles using magnetic compasses or GPS navigation systems requiring accurate heading information. Heavy-duty construction particularly important for Ranger applications: commercial vehicle harsh daily use, touring vehicle extended outback exposure, modified 4WD aggressive off-road operation demanding robust mounting solutions.

Innovative Z Guard Bracket Design with 16mm Mounting Hole - Unique Z-shaped bracket profile offsets antenna mounting position away from Ranger guard providing optimal antenna placement and preventing bodywork interference. Z Guard design advantages: offsets antenna base forward from guard surface creating clearance for antenna cable connections and mounting hardware, elevates antenna mounting point providing superior ground plane for improved radio performance, prevents antenna contact with painted guard surfaces during vibration or movement, positions antenna optimally for bonnet clearance when Ranger hood closed. Offset mounting particularly important for Ranger installation: T6 Ranger features sculpted bodywork with complex guard contours, antenna mounted directly on guard surface may interfere with bonnet closing or contact painted surfaces, Z Guard offset creates necessary clearance maintaining proper antenna position. Standard 16mm antenna mounting hole accommodates conventional UHF antenna installations: 16mm diameter matches most antenna base mounting studs (typically 5/8" or M16 threads), through-hole mounting enables antenna stud passing through bracket with nut securing from underside, standard size compatible with spring-base antennas, fixed-mount antennas, and most aftermarket UHF CB antenna bases. 16mm hole advantages over slotted brackets: provides defined mounting position ensuring consistent antenna placement, circular hole offers equal strength in all directions supporting antenna loading, standard automotive hole size matching common hardware and mounting configurations. Bracket dimensions (130mm length × 50mm width) provide generous mounting surface: substantial material surrounding mounting hole distributes antenna loading preventing localized stress, adequate bracket length enables mounting on Ranger middle panel bolt with proper positioning, sufficient width provides lateral stability preventing bracket twisting under side loading.

Dual-Side Installation Flexibility Using Factory Middle Bolt - Versatile mounting design enables installation on either driver-side or passenger-side guard utilizing existing Ranger factory middle panel bolt eliminating vehicle bodywork drilling. Installation procedure: select preferred installation side (driver or passenger) based on radio placement and cable routing, locate existing middle body panel bolt on chosen guard—typically positioned mid-way along guard panel between wheel arch and headlight area, remove factory middle panel bolt temporarily accessing mounting location, position TLM-FR bracket aligning 16mm mounting hole with factory bolt location, reinstall factory panel bolt through bracket securing to guard, tighten bolt to factory torque specification ensuring secure mounting. Dual-side flexibility advantages: driver-side installation convenient for driver-area radio mounting with short coax cable run, passenger-side installation suitable for center console or passenger-area radio placement, flexibility accommodates different vehicle configurations and installer preferences, enables symmetric dual-antenna installations with brackets on both sides for two-radio setups. No-drill installation benefits: maintains vehicle warranty by avoiding bodywork modifications, preserves guard structural integrity without introducing new holes, completely reversible installation returning Ranger to factory condition, eliminates corrosion risk from drilled holes exposing bare metal, professional appearance using factory mounting points. Middle bolt identification: consult RFI mounting instructions for specific bolt location guidance, middle bolt typically obvious visual inspection revealing bolt heads along guard panel, bolt adequate length and thread engagement supporting bracket and antenna loading. Factory bolt mounting ensures: proper load distribution through vehicle structure, adequate bolt strength for antenna applications, secure mounting point designed for potential accessory additions, professional integration with vehicle engineering.

Custom-Bendable Design for Antenna-Specific Optimization - Malleable 1.6mm stainless steel construction enables slight custom bending matching specific antenna requirements and optimizing mounting geometry for individual installations. Custom bending benefits: adjust bracket angle matching antenna base orientation requirements, fine-tune antenna position for optimal bonnet clearance when hood closed, customize offset distance accommodating different antenna base sizes or cable routing preferences, optimize mounting geometry for specific UHF radio installation configurations. Bending procedure: use vice grips, adjustable wrench, or bending jig applying gradual pressure to bracket, make small incremental bends checking fitment frequently, avoid sharp bends or kinks that could weaken bracket material, test-fit antenna and bracket on vehicle verifying bonnet clearance before final installation. When custom bending recommended: antenna base larger or smaller than typical requiring bracket geometry adjustment, specific antenna cable routing requiring alternate bracket angle, bonnet clearance marginal requiring bracket position fine-tuning, installer preference for optimized antenna positioning. Bending locations typically: Z Guard offset angle can be adjusted slightly forward or rearward, bracket mounting flange can be bent adjusting vertical antenna height, minor tweaks to bracket geometry accommodating Ranger manufacturing tolerances or bodywork variations. Professional installers experienced with Ranger antenna installations develop expertise in optimal bracket bending: understand typical antenna requirements and Ranger clearances, make informed bending decisions based on specific installation scenario, achieve superior results through custom bracket optimization. DIY installers should approach bending conservatively: make minimal adjustments initially verifying improvement before additional bending, over-bending difficult to reverse and may weaken bracket, consult RFI mounting instructions or experienced installers for guidance on typical bending requirements. Custom bending enables perfect installations: accounts for individual Ranger variations, optimizes for specific antenna and radio combination, achieves professional results through personalized adjustment.

Professional Mounting Platform with Paintwork Protection Considerations - Generous 50mm width and 130mm length provide substantial mounting platform ensuring secure antenna installation and optimal load distribution. Bracket dimensions advantages: 130mm length accommodates various antenna base sizes and mounting configurations, 50mm width provides lateral stability preventing bracket rotation under side loading, substantial material mass ensures rigid mounting resisting vibration and flexing, professional proportions suitable for demanding commercial and recreational applications. Mounting hole placement: 16mm hole positioned optimally on bracket providing balanced antenna positioning, hole location accounts for Z Guard offset ensuring proper antenna orientation, adequate material surrounding hole prevents stress concentration or bracket failure. Stainless steel finish: natural stainless steel appearance maintains professional aesthetic, bright metallic finish complements Ranger exterior, corrosion-resistant surface maintains appearance without additional coating required. Paintwork protection recommendations: similar to Hilux installation, apply protective film or double-sided tape to Ranger guard beneath antenna preventing cable contact scratching paintwork, T6 Ranger bonnet closes in proximity to guard-mounted antenna creating potential paint contact scenario, automotive clear paint protection film (PPF) provides optimal protection with invisible appearance, high-quality double-sided foam tape creates cushioned barrier preventing direct paint contact, self-adhesive felt pads strategic placement where antenna cable may touch guard. Protection application procedure: clean guard surface thoroughly, cut protection material covering antenna contact areas plus margin, apply protection ensuring complete adhesion, allow curing before antenna installation. Protection particularly important for: leased Rangers requiring return in original condition, prestige Rangers (Wildtrak, Raptor) maintaining perfect appearance, commercial fleet vehicles avoiding damage costs, resale value protection maintaining paintwork integrity. Periodic inspection recommended: check antenna and cable for guard contact wear, verify protection condition replacing if showing deterioration, adjust cable routing if excessive guard contact evident.

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will TLM-FR fit my Ford Ranger generation?

A: TLM-FR specifically designed for Ford Ranger T6 series (2011/2012 onwards) spanning PX (2012-2015), PXII (2015-2018), and PXIII (2018-current) iterations—all utilize compatible T6 platform bodywork enabling universal bracket fitment. T6 series identification: third-generation global Ranger platform introduced 2011/2012, distinctive modern styling featuring bold grille and sculpted guards, shares platform with Mazda BT-50, continues in current production with various updates maintaining compatible guard panels. Pre-T6 Rangers (2006-2011 and earlier generations) feature different bodywork requiring alternative mounting solutions—TLM-FR will not fit older Ranger generations due to incompatible guard geometry and panel bolt locations. Next-generation Ranger (2022+ in some markets): verify T6 platform compatibility as next-generation represents new architecture potentially requiring updated brackets. Generation verification: check vehicle VIN confirming model year, examine styling identifying T6 characteristics (modern front end, sculpted bodywork), consult Ranger dealership or owner community confirming platform if uncertain. TLM-FR proven compatibility across T6 variants: commercial cab-chassis and dual-cab configurations, all trim levels from base XL through premium Wildtrak and performance Raptor, diesel and petrol engine options, 4×2 and 4×4 drivetrain configurations—guard panels consistent across variants enabling universal T6 fitment.

Q: Can I install TLM-FR on both driver and passenger sides for dual antennas?

A: Yes—TLM-FR dual-side compatibility specifically designed enabling symmetric installations on both guards for dual-antenna configurations. Dual-antenna installation common scenarios: two UHF radios (convoy communications radio and scanning/monitoring radio), UHF CB antenna plus mobile phone signal booster antenna, primary and backup communication systems for remote area travel, separate radios for different user groups in multi-occupant vehicles. Installation procedure for dual antennas: order two TLM-FR brackets (one for each side), install driver-side bracket using driver-side middle panel bolt, install passenger-side bracket using passenger-side middle panel bolt, mount appropriate antenna on each bracket, route coax cables to respective radio installations. Dual installation advantages: balanced antenna distribution providing symmetric appearance, independent antenna positioning enabling optimal placement for each radio, cable routing flexibility with antennas positioned near respective radio locations, redundancy for critical communications applications. Antenna spacing considerations: driver and passenger guard mounting provides adequate antenna separation (approximately 1.5-2 meters typical Ranger width), adequate separation minimizes antenna interaction or interference, independent operation of multiple radios without significant coupling between antennas. Installation planning: determine radio mounting locations before bracket installation, plan cable routing from each antenna to corresponding radio, verify sufficient clearance for both antennas when bonnet closed, consider symmetric appearance if aesthetic coordination important. Professional fleet installations: commercial operations commonly install dual antennas for business and personal radio separation, emergency services vehicles utilize multiple communication systems, mining and agricultural vehicles require redundant communications. Dual TLM-FR installation provides professional multi-antenna solution maintaining clean factory-like appearance using existing mounting points without custom fabrication.

Q: How do I identify the correct middle bolt on my Ranger guard?

A: Middle body panel bolt location typically obvious visual inspection but specific guidance ensures correct identification avoiding installation errors. Bolt identification procedure: examine driver or passenger front guard from exterior viewing panel surface, locate series of body panel bolts visible along guard seam (typically 3-5 bolts securing guard to body structure), identify middle bolt positioned approximately mid-way between wheel arch and headlight area, middle bolt typically centered on guard panel length providing optimal antenna mounting position. Visual characteristics: middle bolt head visible on guard exterior, bolt securing guard panel to underlying body structure, adequate clearance around bolt for bracket installation without interference. Verification method: consult RFI mounting instructions for visual diagrams showing specific bolt location on Ranger T6, compare your vehicle configuration to instruction photos confirming correct bolt, professional installer familiar with Ranger immediately identifies proper mounting bolt. Alternative identification: count bolts along guard panel seam selecting central bolt, measure distances from wheel arch and headlight selecting bolt equidistant from both, if uncertain, temporarily remove suspected bolt verifying guard remains secure (correct bolt is panel fastener, not critical structural component). Common mistakes avoiding: do not use headlight mounting bolts (serve lighting assembly function), avoid bumper mounting bolts (serve bumper attachment not guard panels), do not select bolts near wheel arch opening (may interfere with tire or steering components). Bolt specifications: factory panel bolt typically M8 or M10 thread, adequate length accommodating bracket addition, sufficient thread engagement for secure mounting. If difficulty identifying middle bolt: contact professional 4WD accessory installer for guidance, consult Ranger owner forums with installation photos for community confirmation, reach RFI technical support requesting specific bolt identification assistance. Proper bolt selection ensures successful installation without affecting vehicle structure or other components.

Q: What's the advantage of 16mm hole versus slotted bracket design?

A: TLM-FR 16mm circular hole provides defined standard mounting configuration offering specific advantages compared to slotted bracket alternatives. Circular hole benefits: Precise antenna positioning – 16mm hole establishes fixed antenna location ensuring consistent mounting point, antenna position predictable and repeatable across installations, eliminates positioning uncertainty associated with adjustable slot designs. Equal strength distribution – circular hole provides uniform material distribution in all directions, antenna loading distributed evenly around hole perimeter, no weak points or stress concentrations typical of slot ends. Standard hardware compatibility – 16mm dimension matches most UHF antenna mounting studs (5/8" or M16 threads common), conventional through-bolt mounting using standard nuts and washers, universal compatibility with aftermarket antenna bases. Installation simplicity – single defined mounting position simplifies installation decision, no adjustment or positioning required within slot range, straightforward bolt-through mounting process. Slot design advantages (different products): adjustable antenna position within slot length enabling fine-tuning, accommodates antennas with various base configurations, enables coax cable pass-through applications. TLM-FR circular hole optimal for: standard UHF antenna installations using conventional mounting studs, applications prioritizing strength and defined positioning, installers preferring straightforward mounting without adjustment complexity. Hole size consideration: 16mm accommodates antenna studs up to approximately 15mm diameter with adequate clearance, oversized antenna bases (rare in UHF applications) may require hole enlargement or alternative bracket, verify specific antenna base diameter before purchase ensuring 16mm compatibility. Professional recommendation: circular hole design proven reliable across thousands of Ranger installations, defined positioning eliminates guesswork achieving consistent professional results, adequate for vast majority of UHF CB antenna applications.

Q: Do I need to apply paintwork protection for TLM-FR installation?

A: Yes—paintwork protection recommended for Ranger T6 guard preventing antenna-induced paint damage similar to other modern vehicles with closely fitted bodywork. Protection necessity: T6 Ranger bonnet closes in proximity to guard-mounted antenna, antenna movement during driving (vibration, wind loading) may cause antenna cable or base contacting guard surface, repeated contact over time creates scratches, scuffs, or paint damage on guard, protection layer prevents direct contact between antenna components and painted surface. Recommended protection methods: automotive clear paint protection film (PPF) provides premium transparent durable barrier, high-quality double-sided foam tape creates cushioned buffer, self-adhesive felt or fabric pads positioned where antenna cable contacts guard. Application procedure: clean guard surface thoroughly removing contaminants, apply protection to guard area beneath and around antenna mounting location, ensure protection extends beyond antenna movement range, verify secure adhesion before antenna installation. Ranger-specific considerations: Wildtrak and Raptor premium finishes particularly vulnerable requiring careful protection, commercial Rangers experience harsh conditions making protection valuable, metallic and pearl paint finishes show damage more readily than solid colors. Protection particularly important for: leased Rangers requiring return without damage, prestige Rangers maintaining perfect appearance, commercial fleet avoiding repair costs, resale value protection. Additional protective measures: secure antenna coax cable with cable ties preventing excessive movement, use cable snake or protective conduit over coax reducing stiffness, periodic inspection checking antenna movement and protection condition. Protection investment minimal: materials cost $10-30 typically, installation time 15-30 minutes, prevents paint damage potentially costing hundreds for professional repair. Professional installations: car audio and 4WD accessory installers routinely apply protection during antenna installations, protection application considered best practice for guard-mounted antennas, professional-grade materials and installation techniques ensure maximum protection. DIY installation: protection materials readily available from automotive accessory stores, straightforward application suitable for DIY owners, follow product instructions for proper surface preparation and adhesion.