Introduction to the Benefits of Installing a Side Mount Ladder Rack on Your Truck
A side mount ladder rack is an incredibly versatile and cost-effective accessory for any truck owner. They can be used to carry ladders, extension poles, paint buckets, camping gear, car parts and much more. Not to mention the fact that they are relatively easy to install yourself without needing professional help.
But what are the main benefits of installing a side mount ladder rack on your truck? Let’s take a look at some of the most noteworthy advantages below.
One of the primary benefits of having this type of storage system is its versatility. With a side mount ladder rack installed, you can easily transport large cargo items while maintaining full functional access to your bed space below. Whether you need to make multiple trips between home improvement stores or have bags of materials to take up multiple flights of stairs at job sites, having a secure and conveniently placed storage solution will enable you to get things done quickly and efficiently.
Another great advantage offered by this type of storage system is its durability and longevity over time. Unlike other types of tire racks; on-deck racks; or even roof-mounted cases – which require frequent cleaning and maintenance – side mount ladder racks are built with durable materials designed for heavy use over long periods with minimal upkeep needed. These types of axle covers also offer better protection against effects from weather like rain and snow compared to other solutions; which makes them perfect for those subject to harsh climates year round.
Additionally, if when in need for additional space-saving options within the truck bed area; This type ladder rack setup usually provides plenty in terms of available room for larger items either below it retrofitted with extra tiers such as shelves or even bins; Furthermore providing another layer of ease when using vertical transportation systems like ladders or taller poles due not just providing an easier way transport them at shoulder height but also keeping them tightly place preventing potential debris or damage created during travel times through different terrains outside particular highways “
How to Install a Side Mount Ladder Rack Step by Step
A side mount ladder rack is a must-have for anyone who hauls ladders regularly. Whether you’re an electrician, contractor, or painter, having the right ladder rack can make loading and unloading your heavy equipment as easy as possible. Installing a side mount ladder rack isn’t always straightforward though, so here are some tips to help you get it done right the first time.
Step 1: Determine Where to Mount Your Ladder Rack
Most side mount ladder racks attach to either the bed rails or stake pockets on the sides of pickup trucks. Before purchasing any hardware, make sure to measure both areas of your truck bed so you know what size rack will fit best.
Step 2: Gather Your Supplies
Once you’ve decided where to place your rack, you can gather all of your supplies. You will need U bolts and lock nuts of appropriate size for your particular truck bed measures (for securing it to the bottom rail of the truck) some stainless steel clamps (to secure each side mountain leg onto rails), along with power drill bits and double-sided tape.
Step 3: Follow Ladder Rack Manufacturer’s Instructions
Before attaching any components to your truck body, be sure to read through all materials provided by the manufacturer thoroughly — while there may be slight variations based on specific models or brands, most manufacturers provide universal instructions that should notify how everything should come together correctly without risking damage or injury in installation steps not accounted for in this step by step guide.
Step 4: Attach Side Mount Rails To Truck Bed Rails and Secure U Bolts
Using either bolts or screws depending on type of application; attach each one using cotter pins onto the bottom rail area beneath the bed rails with appropriate spacing between them according to manufacturer’s instructions – once attached tightly ensure proper security via washers and nuts detailed if not already included in assembly by manufacturer themselves when
Commonly Asked Questions about Side Mount Ladder Racks
1. What kind of vehicles can side mount ladder racks fit?
Side mount ladder racks are designed to work with pickups and vans, but they can also be used with most SUVs and minivans – provided the vehicle has the necessary mounting points. Be sure to check your vehicle’s manual or the manufacturer’s website for specific instructions regarding installation requirements.
2. What is the weight capacity of a side mount ladder rack?
Most side mount ladder racks have a maximum carrying capacity of 125-150 lbs, although some may have higher weight limits depending on their design and construction materials/features. It’s important to double-check the maximum capacity delivered for any model you’re considering to ensure it meets your needs and doesn’t exceed your vehicle’s load bearing limits.
3. How long does it take to install a side mount ladder rack?
Installation times can vary depending on your vehicle type and handiness level, but typically it will take 1-2 hours if using basic hand tools (no welding or custom cutting required). Always follow the product instructions provided by the manufacturer for optimal performance and safety when installing a side mount ladder rack – an incorrectly installed product could cause damage in case of severe turbulence or an accident.
4. Do I need any additional tools to install a side mount ladder rack?
Most kits will come with all necessary equipment needed beyond basic hand tools such as wrenches, sockets and screwdrivers; however, there may be additional accessories that you may wish to purchase separately depending on what other tasks you’d like to use your system for such as cargo control tie downs or extra hooks/trays etc… In these cases, always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations so that your system meets both industry standards as well as providing proper support/protection against potential damage caused by rough weather/road conditions – thereby ensuring safe handling of any cargo transported with this system .
Top 5 Facts about Side Mount Ladder Rack Installation
1. The side mount ladder rack is a great option for carrying ladders safely and securely on a vehicle. It is designed to hinge open from the side of your vehicle, allowing you to quickly access a ladder stored in the back or mounted off the side of your truck or SUV.
2. When installing the side mount ladder rack, it’s important to make sure that all mounting screws and hardware are tight and properly secured before driving away with your new ladder rack in place. This will ensure safety and reduce chances of rattles and vibrations during travel.
3. In order to optimize space, consider getting a longer capacity set up for your truck bed or SUV if you plan on hauling large ladders regularly. Be sure that any frame mounted units are correctly placed so that they don’t interfere with suspension parts, fuel lines or brake hoses when opened fully with laden weight onboard vehicle.
4. For optimum safety, consider adding safety straps which keep the load from shifting during transit – this will help ensure safe operation at all times when driving off-road or on rough terrain with an actively loaded ladder rack attached to your vehicle.
5. To maximize visibility while hauling either cargo boxes or long ladders, select racks designed specifically for such loads so that they do not block part of the headlight area or reduce view-ability behind when driving down street/highway roads at night time hours (especially with increasing volume of mega trucks entering lanes next you). Attention grabbing fluorescent colored markers act as extra warning signs for other drivers to take more caution when overtaking such vehicles along highways/ motorways also offering advantages like last mile delivery options too!
Pros and Cons of Installing a Side Mounted Ladder Rack on your Truck
The benefits of installing a side mounted ladder rack onto your truck are plentiful. Not only do they add extra storage and organization, but they also make it easy to transport and access heavy items while off-roading or when travelling. Side mounted racks offer more aerodynamics than roof mounted ones, which can improve fuel efficiency, and with the majority of racks accommodating lengths up to 16 feet, you don’t have the worry of overhanging items that could disrupt other vehicles on the highway.
Additionally, installation is simple and in comparison to roof mounted racks, it is significantly cheaper for those on a tight budget. Plus, as long as you secure your load properly you don’t need to worry about acceleration or braking problems that can be experienced when dealing with an overloaded roof rack – providing you peace of mind should anything unforeseen happen while driving.
But having said that there are a few points worth considering before deciding if this type of ladder rack is right for you: Firstly they are not waterproof so any items placed in between the slats could become damaged by rain water; secondly due to their close proximity near other vehicles dust particles can enter into compartments; finally accessing high up ladders may not be possible depending on vehicle height restrictions or clearance issues relating to low-hanging branches etc.
While these cons should be taken into consideration, overall side mounted ladder racks offer great advantages for those who spend time regularly off-roading – both in terms of utility and convenience – making them a perfect addition to any truck enthusiast’s vehicle setup.
Conclusion: Is Installing a Side Mount Ladder Rack on Your Truck Worth It?
Installing a side mount ladder rack on your truck is definitely worth it if you regularly transport ladders or other bulky items. The combination of convenience, security, and durability makes them an excellent investment for anyone who needs to move large items on a regular basis. Side mount ladder racks offer additional benefits such as saving space in the cab of the truck, they are easy to install and don’t require significant modification to the vehicle afterward. Additionally, installing a side mount ladder rack will drastically improve the look of your vehicle if you choose one with decorative features.
The safety associated with a side mount ladder rack provides peace of mind when transporting potentially hazardous items such as long planks, aluminum tubing and large tools. Not only does this make it safer for others on the road but also for yourself should you have to get out of your vehicle while stopped. With that being said, many high-quality aftermarket products are available so make sure you do your research before making any purchases as inferior materials can lead to structural failure over time.
All things considered, there are strong arguments in support of purchasing a side mount ladder rack for your truck whether it’s for commercial or recreational use. Not only does this option safely secure bulky items thereby reducing the risk of them tipping over and causing an accident but it also saves plenty of valuable space too. Installing a side mount ladder rack may take some time to complete depending on what model you go with but in doing so you will instantly enhance the functionality and overall aesthetic appeal that comes along with it.
