---
title: How to Install the Owl Transit Ladder and Tire Carrier
description: Install the Owl Vans Ladder + Tire Carrier on your Ford Transit for seamless roof access and rear-mounted spare tire storage. No-drill design, rugged build—perfect for overlanding and van life upgrades.
---
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# How to Install the Owl Transit Ladder and Tire Carrier
## How to install the Owl Ford Transit ladder and tire carrier.
#### 1. **Prepare the Ford Transit and Ladder**
- Unbox the ladder kit and check the accessory boxes for all the required components.
- Identify if your **Ford Transit** uses the factory wheels or aftermarket wheels (like the Talon). Select the appropriate wheel hub insert (Puck) based on the size of the center bore.
#### 2. **Install the Base Plate (Drilling the Hole)**
- Clean the area of the rear door where the ladder will be installed.
- Use the provided **aluminum plate** as a template. Align the plate with the seam on the door (around the beltline) and the edge of the door.
- Once aligned, peel the backing from the **3M VHB tape** and press the plate firmly onto the door.
- Drill a hole through the provided template and ensure the drill bit is slightly larger than the bolt. Drill through the outer sheet metal of the **Ford Transit** door.
- Spray paint the drilled hole to prevent rust.
#### 3. **Remove the Interior Door Panel**
- Using a plastic trim removal tool (or your fingers), gently pull the door panel away from the door by pulling straight out. Avoid peeling it to prevent snapping clips.
- Once removed, set the panel aside.
#### 4. **Install the Billet Steel Brackets (Larger bracket on top, smaller on bottom)**
- Begin with the lower hinge bracket. Remove the top and bottom bolts from the **Ford Transit**'s bottom hinge.
- Replace the factory bolts with the longer bolts provided in the ladder kit, using the smaller washers. Hand-tighten these bolts for now, leaving a little play.
- Repeat this process with the top hinge bracket (the larger bracket), ensuring it aligns with the hinge.
#### 5. **Attach the Ladder to the Brackets**
- Using 3/8” bolts, begin attaching the ladder to the aluminum brackets. Start with the bottom bolts, then move to the top bolts.
- You can screw the bolts in by hand initially. Once all bolts are in place, use a 7/32" Allen key to tighten them, ensuring the bolts aren't cross-threaded.
- **Tip:** It helps to have a friend hold the ladder in place while tightening.
#### 6. **Install the All-Thread and Foot Peg**
- Insert the all-thread rod through the ladder, adding washers on both sides, followed by a lock washer and nut on the front. Leave the all-thread loose for now, as it will be adjusted based on your tire size.
- Ensure the **foot peg** is securely tightened and seated against the ladder for maximum structural integrity.
#### 7. **Secure the Third Mounting Point**
- Remove the temporary bolt holding the ladder in place. Install the **bushing** into the drilled hole.
- Use an open-ended wrench to access the nut inside the door and tighten it. Be cautious not to overtighten the bolt, as you do not want to compress the bushing.
#### 8. **Final Tightening**
- Go back to the hinge bolts and tighten them fully using the 13mm wrench.
- Check the tightness of all bolts, including those on the all-thread rod, ensuring everything is secure.
#### 9. **Mount the Tire**
- Adjust the height of the all-thread rod to match the center bore of your **Ford Transit** wheel.
- Once adjusted, secure the tire using the **wheel Puck** and the **Tire handle** from the kit. Ensure the wheel is snug and won’t wobble during travel.
- **Optional:** Use a padlock for added security by inserting it into the hole provided.
#### 10. **Bumper Trimming (if required)**
- Some **Ford Transit** bumpers may need to be trimmed to avoid contact with the hinge. If necessary, use a heat gun to warm the plastic for easier cutting. Trim the bumper carefully, ensuring a clean cut. This will not be visible when the door is closed.
#### 11. **Final Checks**
- Close and open the door to ensure the ladder functions properly and no parts interfere with door movement.
- Double-check all bolts to ensure everything is tight.
- Enjoy your newly installed **Ford Transit** ladder and tire carrier!
Congrats on installing your new gear from Owl!
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