spazzyfry123
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Edit: It won’t let me change the thread title. Diamondback SE not HD
DB = 10 points / Ace = 8 points
I think to compare the two, you have to choose the SE Diamondback variant to have similar load rating, but this is tough to say without knowing the figures used as one manufacturer uses dynamic and the other uses static. To estimate, take static and divide by three for dynamic to be conservative? This ambiguous math results in a wash on load rating, so I'd rather Ace comment on their dynamic load rating than assume. I think it's fair to say that most people on here are going to hit a few ruts and bumps to get their load where it needs to go. Additionally, you can spend about $400 more and opt for the Diamondback HD to get 1600 lbs dynamic which makes it the "winner" in the on-paper side by side comp. Regardless, max payload for a properly spec'd Gladiator is what, 1600 lbs? So the HD will be stronger than the Jeep. Factor in your gear, your passengers, and so forth, I'd say the SE is better suited for the Jeep as-is.
I think it boils down to personal preference and budget at this point. Objectively with cost not being an issue, I think I'd opt for the Ace for the "cage" to feel better about securing some items and I like the versatility of mounting options (as well as their RTT mount option with future Hi-Lift, Rotopax, etc. mounts). The downfall for me is the difficult to get to items in the bed towards the cab. The ability for it to raise is a big bonus, but I wonder if it is functional with a tent or something mounted on top (will the struts hold? will the tent make contact with the Jeep's top?). As a bonus, it's half the price.
What's everyone's thoughts?
- Price: DB - $1649 / Ace - $775
- Load: DB - 400 lbs dynamic (static = 1200 lbs?) / Ace - 1200 lbs static (dynamic = 400 lbs? Although it's made of 1/8" steel, so I'd say it could do more)
- Secure: DB - Yes (locking) / Ace - Yes (with tailgate locked)
- Waterproof: DB - Yes / Ace - Yes
- Weight: DB - ~70 lbs / Ace - 120 lbs
- Construction: DB - 0.080" 3003 aluminum / Ace - 0.125" steel
- Access: DB - Gas strut lift front and rear / Ace - Gas strut lift with main access being rear
- Carry "tall" items: DB - Yes (fold back one of the panels) / Ace - No (must remove)
- Items on top: DB - Cleat system / Ace - Tie down points as well as "cage" around perimeter
- Aftermarket provisions: DB - Yes, but may need to be creative (possibly drill through? I may be wrong) / Ace - Yes; should accept most mounts (kayak, bike, offer RTT mount, etc.)
- Installation: DB - Looks to be pretty straight forward (unsure if it requires Trail Rail option?) / Ace - Requires 10 holes to be drilled and weatherproofing is up to your install
- Removal time: DB - ~10 minutes solo (panels separate) / Ace - ~10 minutes with a friend (one piece design and guessing at time)
- Warranty: DB - Lifetime / Ace - Lifetime
- Made in USA: DB - Yes / Ace - Yes
DB = 10 points / Ace = 8 points
I think to compare the two, you have to choose the SE Diamondback variant to have similar load rating, but this is tough to say without knowing the figures used as one manufacturer uses dynamic and the other uses static. To estimate, take static and divide by three for dynamic to be conservative? This ambiguous math results in a wash on load rating, so I'd rather Ace comment on their dynamic load rating than assume. I think it's fair to say that most people on here are going to hit a few ruts and bumps to get their load where it needs to go. Additionally, you can spend about $400 more and opt for the Diamondback HD to get 1600 lbs dynamic which makes it the "winner" in the on-paper side by side comp. Regardless, max payload for a properly spec'd Gladiator is what, 1600 lbs? So the HD will be stronger than the Jeep. Factor in your gear, your passengers, and so forth, I'd say the SE is better suited for the Jeep as-is.
I think it boils down to personal preference and budget at this point. Objectively with cost not being an issue, I think I'd opt for the Ace for the "cage" to feel better about securing some items and I like the versatility of mounting options (as well as their RTT mount option with future Hi-Lift, Rotopax, etc. mounts). The downfall for me is the difficult to get to items in the bed towards the cab. The ability for it to raise is a big bonus, but I wonder if it is functional with a tent or something mounted on top (will the struts hold? will the tent make contact with the Jeep's top?). As a bonus, it's half the price.
What's everyone's thoughts?
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