If you’re looking to save money while mounting your television, Harbor Freight TV Mount is a great option. Installing a TV mount can seem daunting, but with the right tools and some guidance, you can easily hang your TV on the wall with the Harbor Freight mount. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know to install your Harbor Freight TV Mount, from measuring and marking the wall to attaching your TV to the mount.
Tools and Materials Required for Hanging Harbor Freight TV Mount
Before getting started, you’ll need a few tools and materials. These include:
- Stud finder
- Tape measure
- Level
- Pencil
- Socket set
- Drill
- Lag bolts
- Wall anchors
It’s important to note that the weight of your TV will determine the size and number of lag bolts and wall anchors needed. It’s recommended to use at least four lag bolts and wall anchors for TVs weighing 50 pounds or less, and six for TVs weighing more than 50 pounds. Additionally, make sure to choose lag bolts and wall anchors that are appropriate for the type of wall you’ll be mounting the TV on, whether it’s drywall, concrete, or brick.
Measuring and Marking the Wall for the TV Mount
The first step in installing your Harbor Freight TV Mount is to measure and mark the wall where the mount will be installed. Use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall, and mark their locations with a pencil. Next, measure and mark the height you want your TV to be. It’s important to make sure your marks are level, so use a level to double-check your work.
Once you have marked the location of the studs and the height for your TV, it’s important to consider the viewing angle. You want to make sure that the TV is mounted at a comfortable height and angle for your viewing pleasure. Take into account the distance between the TV and the seating area, as well as any potential glare from windows or lights.
Before drilling any holes, it’s also important to check for any electrical wires or plumbing behind the wall. Use a stud finder with a built-in wire detector or hire a professional to ensure that you don’t accidentally damage any important infrastructure. Once you have confirmed that it’s safe to proceed, you can begin drilling the holes for the mount and attaching it to the wall.
How to Install the Wall Plate of Harbor Freight TV Mount
Once you’ve marked the wall, it’s time to install the wall plate of your Harbor Freight TV Mount. Line up the plate with the marks you made on the wall, making sure it’s level. Use the lag bolts and a socket set to attach the plate to the studs in the wall. Make sure to tighten the bolts securely so that the wall plate is firmly attached.
It’s important to note that the size and weight of your TV will determine the number of lag bolts you need to use to secure the wall plate. For larger and heavier TVs, it’s recommended to use four lag bolts, while smaller and lighter TVs may only require two. Additionally, if you’re unsure about the location of the studs in your wall, you can use a stud finder to locate them before attaching the wall plate. This will ensure that your TV mount is securely attached to the wall and can safely hold your TV.
Attaching the Arms of Harbor Freight TV Mount to Wall Plate
After installing the wall plate, it’s time to attach the arms of your Harbor Freight TV Mount. These arms will hold the bracket that the TV will be attached to. Align the arms with the wall plate and use the provided bolts and nuts to secure them in place. Check again to make sure everything is level and securely in place.
It’s important to note that the weight of your TV should be taken into consideration when attaching the arms to the wall plate. Make sure that the arms and wall plate are rated to hold the weight of your TV. If you’re unsure, consult the manufacturer’s instructions or seek professional assistance.
Once the arms are securely attached to the wall plate, you can attach the bracket that will hold your TV. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully and use the appropriate hardware. It’s also a good idea to have someone assist you in lifting and attaching the TV to the bracket to avoid any accidents or damage to your TV.
How to Attach the Bracket to Your TV for Harbor Freight TV Mount
Next, it’s time to attach the bracket to your TV. Most TVs have VESA mounting points on the back, where you can attach the bracket. Measure the spacing between the mounting points, and then attach the bracket to the TV using the provided bolts and washers. Be sure to follow the instructions provided with your specific TV mount for proper attachment.
It’s important to note that the weight of your TV should also be taken into consideration when attaching the bracket. Make sure the bracket is rated to support the weight of your TV, and that the bolts and washers used to attach the bracket to the TV are also rated for the weight. Failure to properly support the weight of the TV can result in damage to both the TV and the bracket, and can even be a safety hazard.
How to Hang Your Television on the Harbor Freight TV Mount
Now that your wall plate and bracket are in place, it’s time to mount your TV onto the bracket. With the help of another person, carefully lift the TV and bracket and attach it to the wall plate. Make sure the TV is level and centered on the mount, and that the lag bolts and nuts on the wall plate are tightened securely. Once everything is in place, you can adjust the tilt and angle of the TV to your desired viewing position.
It’s important to note that the weight of your TV should not exceed the weight limit specified by the mount manufacturer. Exceeding this limit can cause the mount to fail and potentially damage your TV or injure someone. Additionally, make sure to use the appropriate hardware and tools for your specific TV and mount. If you’re unsure about any aspect of the installation process, consult a professional or refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Tips to Ensure Your Harbor Freight TV Mount is Securely Installed
To ensure that your TV mount is securely installed, there are a few additional tips to keep in mind:
- Always use a stud finder to locate studs for maximum stability.
- Make sure all bolts and nuts are tightened securely.
- Double-check that everything is level throughout the installation process.
- If you’re unsure about installing the mount yourself, it’s best to call a professional for installation.
It’s also important to consider the weight and size of your TV when selecting a mount. Make sure the mount you choose is rated to support the weight and size of your TV. Additionally, consider the placement of the mount and the viewing angle to ensure the best viewing experience. Taking these factors into account will help ensure a safe and secure installation for your TV mount.
Troubleshooting Common Issues while Hanging a Harbor Freight TV Mount
If you encounter any issues while hanging your Harbor Freight TV Mount, here are some common troubleshooting tips:
- If your TV feels unstable or wobbles after installation, double-check that all bolts and nuts are securely tightened.
- If you can’t find any studs in the wall where you want to install your TV mount, you’ll need to use wall anchors instead.
- If the TV mount seems crooked, check that both the wall plate and bracket are level before making any adjustments.
However, there are some less common issues that may arise during the installation process. One of these issues is if the TV mount is not compatible with your TV. Make sure to check the specifications of both the mount and your TV before purchasing to avoid this issue.
Another issue that may occur is if the mount is not centered on the wall. This can be easily fixed by measuring and marking the center of the wall before installation and using a level to ensure the mount is centered.
Maintenance Tips for Your Harbor Freight Tv Mount
Once your Harbor Freight TV Mount is installed, it’s important to maintain it properly to ensure it lasts. Here are some maintenance tips:
- Regularly check all bolts and nuts to make sure they are still secure.
- Dust the mount and TV regularly to prevent any buildup.
- Avoid hanging anything heavy on the TV or mount.
- Inspect the mount periodically for any signs of wear or damage and replace any damaged parts as necessary.
With these steps, you should now have a securely mounted TV with your Harbor Freight TV Mount. Enjoy your newfound viewing experience hassle-free!
It’s also important to note that you should avoid moving the TV mount frequently. Moving the mount can cause stress on the bolts and nuts, which can lead to damage or loosening of the mount. If you need to move the TV, it’s best to remove it from the mount and re-install it in the new location.