Headache rack diy

[Defsailor]

I really didn't like any of the racks I found available. So my welding neighbor and I are fabricating this out of aluminum.
I will paint it with a bed liner to try and match satin cab. I wanted low profile and something to manage inflatable boat, paddle boards, home Depot trips, etc. only 10 # . I will modify tonneau to work and have very little $ into it. Got the aluminium from scrap pile.

Sponsored

 

[ggdillon]

Nice! I like that it matches the angles of the (very upright) cab of the gladiator.... unlike most racks that tilt way too far in. Are you going to be able to move it to the tailgate end, too? Then you could use it with the roof rack over the cab and let the paddleboards and stuff sit horizontally up out of the way.

 

[Defsailor]

Thanks, I wanted it to look like OEM truck profile.
It wont move to tailgate, I might make something for that later. I will use roof rack to keep boards aloft when just going the mile to the beach and marina. Otherwise lean them from bed to rack.
I used full can of primer and 3 coats Raptor bed liner so it should last a while. Just need to trim tonneau to fit and make a padded crossbar cover and I 'm good!
Total weight 10#.

 

[Defsailor]

all done! tonneau trimmed and made a foam /canvas soft cover across the top.
Grandmonsters (11yr old twin boys) will be here when schools out, then it will be tested with surfboards, paddle boards, inflatable boat. I'm looking forward to it!

Sponsored