Time Required
10-30 minutes
Depending on guard type
Difficulty
Easy
No specialist skills needed
Drilling Required
No
For U-bolt style guards
Tools Needed
Most stone guard installations require only basic hand tools. No power tools are needed for U-bolt mounted guards like the D-Flector.
Essential Tools
- +Adjustable spanner or socket set (13mm typical for U-bolts)
- +Tape measure
- +Marker pen or masking tape (for positioning)
- +Gloves (optional, for comfort)
Optional (Helpful)
- +Ratchet spanner (makes tightening faster)
- +Spirit level (for checking alignment)
- +WD-40 or anti-seize (for future removal)
- +Second person (helpful but not required)
Step-by-Step Installation (D-Flector Example)
These instructions use the D-Flector Stone Guard as the reference product. The D-Flector arrives fully assembled — no construction required. If you are installing a different guard, follow the manufacturer's instructions but the general principles below still apply.
Prepare the A-Frame
Unhitch the caravan from the tow vehicle so you have clear access to the A-frame. Lower the jockey wheel to stabilise the van. Clean any dirt or debris from the A-frame rails where the guard will mount — this ensures a secure grip for the U-bolts.
Position the Guard
Hold the stone guard up against the A-frame in the desired mounting position. The guard should sit behind the coupling mechanism and in front of the gas bottles (if A-frame mounted). Centre it across both A-frame rails.
For the D-Flector, the mesh should face forward (toward where the tow vehicle will be). Check that the guard does not interfere with the jockey wheel, handbrake lever, or coupling handle. If you have a centre-mounted jockey wheel, use the D-Flector centre cut-out model.
Attach the U-Bolts
Slide the U-bolts around the A-frame rails and through the guard's mounting brackets. Thread the nuts onto the U-bolt legs by hand first — do not tighten yet. You want the guard to be loosely held in position so you can make adjustments.
Align and Level
With the guard loosely mounted, step back and check the alignment. The guard should be centred across the A-frame, level from side to side, and positioned to maximise coverage of vulnerable components (gas bottles, water fittings, electrical connections). Adjust the position as needed before tightening.
Tighten Securely
Using your spanner or socket, tighten all U-bolt nuts firmly. Alternate between sides (left, right, left, right) to ensure even clamping pressure. The guard should not move or rattle when pushed firmly. Do not over-torque — you should be able to remove the nuts in future if needed.
Final Checks
Before your first tow, verify:
- The guard does not contact the tow vehicle when turning at full lock
- The jockey wheel raises and lowers without obstruction
- The handbrake lever operates freely
- The coupling can open and close normally
- Gas bottle valves are still accessible
- The guard does not block any lights or reflectors
Tips and Tricks
Non-standard A-frames
If your A-frame uses box section rather than round tube, check that the U-bolts supplied are compatible. Some guards offer flat-plate mounting brackets as an alternative. Contact the manufacturer with your A-frame dimensions if unsure.
Preventing Rattles
If the guard rattles on corrugated roads, add rubber or neoprene padding between the U-bolt and the A-frame rail. This dampens vibration and also protects the A-frame's paint finish.
Seasonal Maintenance
Check mounting bolts at the start of each touring season. Inspect the mesh for tears or holes caused by large stone impacts. Stainless steel guards (like the D-Flector) need minimal maintenance — a wipe down with fresh water after coastal or dusty trips is sufficient.
Combining Protection
For maximum protection on serious outback tracks, combine an A-frame stone guard with a full-front towing cover. The guard handles the heavy stones, while the cover protects the upper front panel and windows from smaller debris.
Installation Notes by Product
| Product | Install Time | Mounting Method | Drilling? |
|---|---|---|---|
| D-Flector | 10 minutes | U-bolt clamp | No |
| Stone Stomper | Custom fit initial | Custom brackets | No |
| Rock Tamers | 30-60 minutes | Hitch receiver | No |
| Coast Stone Shield | 15-20 minutes | Bolt-on | No |
| Aussie Traveller | 15-20 minutes | Bolt-on | No |
| Rock Off | 20-30 minutes | Aluminium extrusion bolt | No |
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