Technology is provided for an inflation hubcap installation system for connecting an air hose to an inflation hubcap air fitting. The inflation hubcap installation system includes a locking tool, a tool retainer, and a torque wrench adapter. The locking tool includes a hubcap interface portion and a wrench portion configured to engage the air fitting when the hubcap interface portion is connected to the inflation hubcap. The tool retainer connects to the locking tool and retains the locking tool on the inflation hubcap. The torque wrench adapter engages the air hose and connects to a suitable torque wrench.