The Erickson 800 lb. Aluminum Truck Rack (Item no: 07705) is a robust and versatile accessory designed to enhance the cargo-carrying capabilities of pickup trucks. This instruction manual outlines the assembly, installation, and safe operation of the truck rack, emphasizing safety precautions and proper usage to ensure longevity and prevent injury.
Function Description:
The primary function of the Erickson Aluminum Truck Rack is to provide a secure and elevated platform for transporting oversized or bulky items that cannot fit within the truck bed or would obstruct the driver's view. With a rated weight capacity of 800 lbs., it is suitable for carrying a wide range of equipment, such as ladders, lumber, kayaks, canoes, and other long or heavy materials. The rack distributes the load evenly across the truck bed, preventing damage to the truck and ensuring stable transport. Its design incorporates multiple attachment points and adjustable components, allowing users to customize the setup based on their specific cargo needs. The rack's elevated position helps to keep cargo clear of the truck bed, freeing up space for additional items and improving overall utility.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Weight Capacity: 800 lbs. (distributed evenly). It is crucial to adhere to this limit and also to the truck's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating to prevent product failure or damage to the vehicle.
- Material: Aluminum construction, which provides a balance of strength and lightweight design, contributing to fuel efficiency and ease of handling during installation.
- Components: The rack system comprises several key components, each with specific quantities and functions:
- Post A (2x) and Post B (2x): These form the vertical support structures of the rack, designed to be securely clamped to the truck bed.
- Cross Bar (2x): These horizontal bars span across the truck bed, providing the main support for cargo.
- Triangular Stop (4x): These adjustable stops are used to secure cargo laterally on the cross bars, preventing shifting during transit.
- Mounting Sleeve (4x): These sleeves facilitate the attachment of the triangular stops to the cross bars.
- Adjustment Knob (4x): Used for fine-tuning the position of certain components.
- Clamp (8x): Essential for securely attaching the rack posts to the truck bed.
- Fasteners: A comprehensive set of bolts, nuts, and washers ensures a secure and stable assembly. These include:
- M8*40 Bolt (8x)
- M8 Lock nut (8x)
- M10*25 bolt (12x)
- M12 nut (8x)
- 10 spring washer (12x)
- 12 spring washer (8x)
- 10 Washer (16x)
- 12 Washer (8x)
- M10 Locking Nut (8x)
- Plastic End Cover (4x): These covers provide a finished look and protect the ends of the rack components.
Usage Features:
- Adjustability: The design incorporates adjustable components, particularly the triangular stops, which can be positioned along the cross bars to accommodate various cargo sizes and shapes. This flexibility allows for secure transport of diverse loads.
- Secure Mounting: The rack is designed to be securely clamped to the truck bed, ensuring stability even when carrying heavy loads or driving on uneven terrain. The use of multiple clamps per post enhances the overall rigidity of the system.
- Ease of Assembly: The instruction manual provides a step-by-step guide for assembly, starting with the triangular stops and progressing to the main rack structure. Clear diagrams and component lists simplify the process.
- Versatile Cargo Transport: Ideal for professional use (e.g., construction, landscaping) and recreational activities (e.g., camping, watersports), allowing users to transport long items like lumber, pipes, ladders, kayaks, and surfboards without occupying the truck bed.
- Dynamic Loading Awareness: The manual highlights the importance of being aware of dynamic loading, where sudden load movement can briefly create excess stress, potentially leading to product failure. Proper strapping and even distribution of weight are crucial.
- DOT Compliance: Users are advised to follow DOT regulations regarding installation and use, ensuring legal and safe operation on public roads.
Maintenance Features:
- Regular Inspection: The manual emphasizes the importance of inspecting the rack before every use. Users should check for loose or damaged parts and refrain from using the rack if any issues are found. This proactive approach helps prevent accidents and extends the product's lifespan.
- Secure Mounting Verification: It is crucial to ensure the truck rack is securely mounted to the vehicle at all times. Regular checks of the clamps and fasteners are recommended to maintain stability.
- Cleanliness: Keeping the installation area clean and well-lit during assembly and maintenance is advised, contributing to a safer working environment.
- Proper Storage: While not explicitly detailed, the aluminum construction suggests good resistance to corrosion, but proper storage when not in use can further extend its life and maintain its aesthetic appeal.
- Label and Nameplate Maintenance: The manual instructs users to maintain product labels and nameplates, as they carry important safety information.
- Warranty Information: The product comes with a warranty, though it excludes normal wear, misuse, improper installation, and cosmetic defects. Understanding these exclusions helps users properly care for the product to avoid voiding the warranty. The warranty also covers manufacturing defects and provides information on how to contact Erickson Manufacturing Ltd. for support.
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