If you often carry heavy loads on your truck, you certainly need a headache rack. Besides, the rack also protects your truck from the scratched cab or busted rear window. Generally, there are many circumstances in which you will need one. How to choose the best headache racks among lots of products out there?
If you want to know the answer, you should read this article which will offer you several models available on the market nowadays. You are also provided with an in-depth buying guide, helping you understand more about the rack criteria. Let’s have a look at them now!
Contents
- Why Should You Buy This Item?
- Top 3 Backrack Types
- Features to Consider Before Buying A Headache Rack
- How We Perform The Research To Find The Best Headache Racks?
- Top 5 Best Headache Racks For Trucks
- FAQs
- How To Install A Back Rack on Your Semi Trucks?
- Can I Use Headache Racks With Tonneau Covers?
- Final Words – Best Truck Headache Rack?
- Bonus: Backrack 15004 on GMC Sierra Installation
- Latest Headache Rack Bestsellers on Amazon
Why Should You Buy This Item?
As you can guess, the primary reason for buying this item is that they can protect your vehicle’s cab and rear window. By that, you can save a lot of money spent to repair your car parts.
Another reason for using the truck rack is that you can haul long items in the truck bed. Due to the additional length from the installation process to your truck, you can carry items that are about 20 feet maximum without hassle.
Last but not least, the truck rack serves as a decoration for the vehicle’s appeal. As the racks come in different designs and shapes, your trucks will have more class and elegance without much effort.
Top 3 Backrack Types
1. Bed Mounted
This type seems to be the most stylish, among others. It is perfect for those who want to optimize the truck bed space to transport loads of cargo. The bed mounted rack can double or triple the truck room, so you can store more cargo and keep them safe simultaneously.
However, it is only used for smaller trucks. And it is ideal to select those that are made of steel as this material is strong enough to support the cargo you intend to store.
2. Roof Mounted
The roof mounted racks are suitable for trucks that do not have truck beds as they give you extra storage space. As the name says it all, these racks will be mounted on your vehicle roof.
Smaller car owners might be interested in this type as it is genuinely useful in lighter material transportation. That is why the roof mounted ones are usually made of aluminum.
3. Cab Mounted
Although the cab mounted racks are the least stylish, they are still beneficial to handle a great deal of weight. Another feature of this type is its fiberglass material, which will not add more weight to your truck. So, it appears to be the most suitable option for owners who often carry lots of cargo.
Features to Consider Before Buying A Headache Rack
Material Construction – Steel vs. Aluminum
Indeed, steel is not the optimal option. It is quite dangerous for small trucks as it makes the truck weight uneven. This is unlikely to result in accidents. Besides, steel is not good-looking and appealing.
By contrast, aluminum is light and sturdy, which makes it a popular preference for many truckers. In terms of protection for cargo, both materials are ideal, but aluminum overweighs a bit as it does not affect the trucks’ speed.
Warranty
The warranty of these items depends on each brand. Usually, it lasts for one year or two years. Some brands also provide a lifetime warranty, but some do not. When you buy the truck headache rack, you should ask the mechanic or customer assistant for more information.
Style
The universal and custom-made models are the two main styles. You can install the universal models onto any vehicle as they are immensely versatile.
Conversely, the custom-made frames are more limited as they are made for particular car brands. Furthermore, custom-made racks are certainly more expensive than universal ones. So, it would be best if you contemplated this when coming to the style.
Fit
Some headache racks come in one or two sizes that fit a wide range of vehicles, while others are made for a certain make or model. Model-specific racks may cost a little more, but they will fit your truck better.
Ease of Installation
Almost headache racks are easy to install into the stake pockets. The ease of installation might depend on the tool you have. It would help if you used additional spacers and risers for a more rigid fit.
Quality
Understandably, the materials to construct this product have to be high-quality. The higher the quality level is, the better your product will be. You should select the models that are made from robust materials. By that, they will not break down quickly and last longer.
Price
You will have to pay more money for the more massive racks. Additionally, some famous brands often overcharge their rack products. So, in this case, if you do not want much protection, you should not spend much money. Besides, you should look for and compare some racks from different brands thoroughly before purchasing.
Customers’ Reviews
Finding the best products is easy if you look at what other people have said about them. Most of the time, what most customers say about a product sums up what it does. Concerning headache racks, there are a lot of websites where you can find a lot of information about the different models. Make sure to read reviews before you make your final choice.
Brands
There are many different types of headache racks on the market today. It’s tempting to choose a cheaper model that you don’t know much about, but experts say that you shouldn’t.
When choosing a rack for your truck, make sure you know about all the good brands, both the well-known ones and the newer ones. Look into these brands to find a car rack that works for you.
How We Perform The Research To Find The Best Headache Racks?
For this review, I’ve looked for the best headache racks at places like Amazon, RealTruck, and Advance Auto Parts. I also ‘ve looked at things like customer ratings, prices, and whether or not they were eligible for Prime shipping.
I’ve also looked through message boards for fans to see what people think is most important, the positive and negative reviews to consider adding to the list finally.
Top 5 Best Headache Racks For Trucks
#1 Best For Trucks: Steelcraft 90001 Headache Rack
- 2000-2020 Chevrolet Silverado/GMC...
- 2000-2020 Toyota Tundra
- 2000-2010 Dodge Ram 1500/2500/3500
To increase protection for your vehicle, headache racks and the best backracks are essential factors. If you are looking for one for your truck, you should check out the Steelcraft 90001.
Steelcraft 90001 is an indispensable companion for those who carry loads over long distances. If you invest in headache pain, you are making the right decision.
The massive construction of the Steelcraft 90001 gives it outstanding durability. The manufacturer uses unique tubular steel to help you store more items.
Besides, the Steelcraft 90001 is also made from stainless steel model T304. Its appearance is very modern and usually uplifting, almost resembling the wind doors. Therefore, it can also provide ventilation and regulation of temperature.
Pros
- Outstanding durability
- Stainless steel material
- Outstanding appearance
Cons
- There is no handlebar on either side.
With its advantages, Steelcraft 90001 can satisfy any demanding user. Would you like to explore it right away?
#2 Best For F150: Backrack 15004 Headache Rack
- BackRack 15004 frame only
- Truck specific hardware kit...
- Fits 1999-2017 Chevy/GMC Silverado,...
Backrack 15004 Headache Rack is one of the best headache racks available today for F150. This model comes with many outstanding advantages to help the user most effectively.
One particular thing is that this product has received a patent. Therefore, users can easily see its difference from some other headache support models. Besides, you can attach this bracket to your car securely. It offers overwhelming power that you will enjoy.
Backrack 15004 is painted with a black powder coating. You will not have to worry about it getting scratched or rusted. The flexible size allows you to use it more easily. Carrying accessories is also not too difficult.
Pros
- Outstanding strength
- Not easy to be scratched or corroded
- Durable
Cons
- Does not come with mounting hardware
The impressive advantages of the Backrack 15004 have made it a priority for many people. Why don’t you give it a try?
#3 Best For Tacoma: Dee Zee Aluminum Rack
- Rugged Protection From 2. 75"...
- Heavy-Duty Aluminum Ultra Mesh...
- Protective Gloss Black Powder Coat...
Dee Zee Aluminum Rack completely satisfies this requirement, especially for Tacoma. This cabin rack is made entirely of aluminum with a sturdy structure. Its aluminum profiles are octagonal.
Thanks to this heavy construction, Dee Zee Aluminum Rack has a long lifespan and can work over long periods. Its super mesh system also ensures better safety.
Alternatively, you can detach the Dee Zee Aluminum Rack’s two braces. Its appearance is very energetic. One particular thing is that you will not have to drill when installing this device.
Pros
- Solid design
- No drilling is required when installing
- Long service life
Cons
- May not be suitable for some vehicles
The convenience of Dee Zee Aluminum Rack is entirely based on the features it offers. It is these beautiful things that have made its reputation in the market.
#4 Best For Ram 3500: ARIES Classic Headache Rack
Despite its classic design, the ARIES Classic Headache Rack still has outstanding power. Thanks to this design, it can bring perfect stability without less safety.
The manufacturer uses bearing stainless steel material to make the ARIES Classic. Therefore, it is extremely suitable for those who carry a lot of belongings over long distances.
It can be said that this item is suitable for most types of trucks. The steel construction is resistant to dust, snow, or other forces from nature.
On the outside of the ARIES Classic is a weather-resistant powder coating. Another advantage is that this headache holder also minimizes damage and high temperatures.
Although you will have to drill some space during installation, it is not as difficult as you might imagine.
Pros
- High protection
- Outstanding durability
- Brings stability
Cons
- Could be scratched
ARIES Classic will help you to relieve the confusion when you are searching for perfection.
#5 Best For Tundra: Backrack 12400 Headache Rack
- Package Dimensions: 185.42 H x 7.62...
- Country of Origin : Canada
- Package Weight: 26.762 kilograms
Backrack 12400 Headache Rack will be the perfect choice for those looking for a headache rack for Tundra, particularly in all vehicles in general. The first reason this product is so popular is its roof.
Thanks to this design, it can perfectly protect your car in difficult situations. The outer coating is done in a double process, including powder coating and multi-stage immersion. So Backrack 12400 can resist damage.
Also, the installation process does not take much time as you do not have to drill anything. It also does not take much effort if you want to add some additional accessories.
Pros
- Fast installation process
- Outstanding protection mechanism with roof
- Outer coating adds durability
Cons
- There is no hardware in the box included
With its versatility and durability, the Backrack 12400 is what you are looking for. It will not disappoint you.
FAQs
1. Who makes the best headache rack?
Backrack probably wants to shout out their name as one of the manufacturers making the best headache rack. Their products are made of heavy-duty steel and are powder-coated, making them more durable, stronger, and better looking as well. Some other brands, such as Dee Zee or MaxxHaul, are also worth your attention.
2. What is a headache rack for?
Frankly, they are used to protect passengers sitting in the cab and secure things/ cargo to the box.
3. Does Ranch Hand still make headache racks?
When you visit the official website of Ranch Hand, you cannot find the products anymore. It seems that Ranch Hand might stop producing the truck back rack.
4. How do you install a headache rack without drilling?
Typically, there are holes provided for the industrial-grade installation. It would be best if you took advantage of the stakes and riser adapters to install the rack. The riser stakes are more accessible and more rigid to tighten.
How To Install A Back Rack on Your Semi Trucks?
- Most headache racks are put into the stake pockets of trucks to make sure they protect fully. There are holes here for an industrial-grade installation process that will make it much less likely that your car will get damaged in an accident.
- Instead of the standard installation hardware, you should use riser adapters and stakes. This is because it is easier to tighten riser stakes, and they are also stronger.
- Some racks have to be attached to the sides of your truck bed. For the cleanest look and feel, these units must be put in place on edges and surfaces that are perfectly smooth.
Can I Use Headache Racks With Tonneau Covers?
There are a lot of reasons why tonneau covers and headache racks are popular truck accessories. People usually have to make a hard choice between a headache rack and a tonneau cover. The headache rack helps you carry big things, and the tonneau cover helps you hide valuable things.
But if you use a mix of both, you can have a lot of options and enough space to carry things while getting the most protection.
Final Words – Best Truck Headache Rack?
The Steelcraft 90001 Headache Rack deserves to be the best choice in this article. It is made to be suitable for almost all trucks, so you will not have to spend too much time finding the racks. Another option can be Backrack 12400 Headache Rack. It is well-designed and made of heavy-duty stainless steel, so it is immensely durable.
Briefly, there are many backracks available on the market, and you have to be conscious. You now gain more knowledge about the criteria when choosing the best ones. Hopefully, you enjoy this article and have a rewarding experience with your new headache rack soon.
Bonus: Backrack 15004 on GMC Sierra Installation
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Hey, Naomi O’Colman here.
With years working at an auto repair shop in Texas and passionate about the auto industry. I want to share with my readers the best quality products through my well-researched reviews as well as fixing minor defects in your car.
Affiliated links and Images on this post was last updated on 2023-05-31 via Amazon Product Advertising API.
