Tie Down buttons on BA Ute? - Ford Forums - Mustang Forum, Ford Trucks, Ford Focus and Ford Cars

mattrichter · 11-13-2002, 22:04

Question for the Ford Gurus ....

Can you get a BA Ute (Style-Side) without the tie-down buttons?

I know they can be removed after delivery, but it leaves marks on the panels... does anyone know if this is possible??

Thanks.

spin doctor · 11-14-2002, 02:51

Matt,

Not from the factory. When the panels are pressed the 'cotton reel' holes are punched in the side as well.

The removal of the cotton reels (used for retention of the tonneau cover) will need to be done at the Dealership or a panel beater and shouldn't be a drama with normal care and attention.

A set of plugs are available through Parts that can be painted and inserted in the holes to 'almost' make the holes invisible.

I've also seen, presumably the more expensive option, but more aesthetically appealing method of getting a panel beater to fill the holes with normal body putty and buffing it back before respraying the ute well.

mattyc · 11-14-2002, 03:01

Doesnt the Pursuit 250 come std with no tie downs?

Or have they got those "plugs" that are body coloured that fill the gaps...

spin doctor · 11-14-2002, 03:16

The Pursuit has the cotton reels removed (at FPV) and the plugs painted and inserted.

mattyc · 11-14-2002, 03:26

That would make sense really, considering the Pursuit has a hard cover with spoiler as standard.

One guy I know doesnt even put a spade in the back of his SS.

Probably to scared itl scratch it!

Cant blame him really.

Aussie Pete · 11-14-2002, 13:06

Yeah, those holes and the 'plug fix' aren't the ducks guts but they sell heaps of utes so why would Ford change anything I ask?