Fishbone Offroad FB22150

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Summary

Top Support Brace Installation

Side Support Brace Installation

Bed Channel Mount Bracket Installation

Overview

Function Description
Usage Features
Maintenance Features

The Fishbone Offroad FB22150 Jeep JT Gladiator Tackle Rack is a robust and versatile bed rack system designed to enhance the cargo carrying capabilities of your Jeep JT Gladiator. This system provides a secure and adaptable platform for mounting various accessories and gear, making it ideal for off-road enthusiasts, adventurers, and anyone needing extra storage for their vehicle. The design focuses on durability, ease of installation, and modularity, allowing users to customize their setup according to their specific needs.

Function Description

The primary function of the Fishbone Offroad Tackle Rack is to provide an elevated and secure mounting surface above the truck bed. This allows for the transport of larger items that might not fit within the bed itself, or for organizing gear in a way that keeps the bed clear for other cargo. It effectively transforms the open space above the bed into a functional storage area. The rack system is engineered to distribute weight evenly across the bed rails, ensuring stability and safety during transit, even over challenging terrain. By utilizing the bed channels and T-nuts (for vehicles with Trail Rail), the rack integrates seamlessly with the vehicle's existing structure, providing a strong and reliable attachment point. The multiple attachment points and adjustable components mean that a wide range of accessories, such as recovery gear, lighting, and other overland equipment, can be securely fastened. This modularity is key to its utility, allowing users to adapt the rack for different types of trips and activities, from camping and fishing to serious off-roading. The elevated position of the rack also helps to keep valuable gear out of the elements and away from potential damage within the bed, while also making it more accessible.

Usage Features

The Fishbone Offroad Tackle Rack is designed with several user-friendly features that make it practical and adaptable.

Modular Design: The rack consists of multiple components, including arch braces, top support braces, side support braces, and bed channel mount brackets. This modularity allows for flexible configuration. Users can adjust the spacing of the support braces along the arches to accommodate different types of cargo or accessories. This means you can tailor the rack to fit anything from kayaks and bicycles to rooftop tents and recovery boards. The ability to slide and tighten the braces to your liking ensures that the rack can be optimized for specific loads, providing both security and convenience.
Easy Installation: While robust, the installation process is designed to be straightforward, requiring common hand tools such as a utility knife, ratchet, 19mm socket, and 19mm wrench. The instructions guide the user through applying foam padding to protect vehicle contact points, assembling the arch and support braces, and finally securing the entire system to the truck bed. The use of carriage bolts, hex bolts, washers, and Nyloc nuts ensures a secure and vibration-resistant assembly. For vehicles equipped with the Trail Rail system, the rack utilizes included T-nuts, which simplify the attachment process and provide a strong, integrated connection. The step-by-step instructions, complemented by visual aids, help ensure a correct and efficient setup.
Accessory Mounts: The rack includes dedicated accessory mounts, which are crucial for expanding its functionality. These mounts are designed to accept additional hardware, allowing users to attach a variety of accessories such as jerry cans, high-lift jacks, or other specialized equipment. The strategic placement of these mounts provides convenient access to gear while keeping it securely fastened during travel. The use of 60mm bolts, washers, and nuts for these mounts ensures a strong and reliable connection for heavy accessories.
Durable Construction: Built from high-quality materials, the Tackle Rack is designed to withstand the rigors of off-road use and harsh weather conditions. The components are engineered for strength and longevity, ensuring that the rack can support significant weight and endure impacts without compromising its structural integrity. This durability is essential for maintaining safety and reliability, especially when carrying heavy or bulky items over uneven terrain.
Vehicle Integration: The rack is specifically designed for the Jeep JT Gladiator, ensuring a perfect fit and aesthetic integration with the vehicle. The bed channel mount brackets are engineered to align precisely with the truck bed's structure, providing a stable and secure foundation. For Gladiators with the Trail Rail system, the inclusion of T-nuts ensures a factory-like attachment, maintaining the vehicle's original functionality while adding significant utility. The overall design complements the rugged appearance of the Gladiator, enhancing its utility without detracting from its style.
Adjustable Spacing: The ability to loosely secure the support braces initially and then adjust their positions before final tightening is a key feature. This allows users to fine-tune the spacing between the braces to perfectly match the dimensions of their cargo, whether it's a narrow ladder or a wide rooftop tent. This flexibility ensures that items are always securely supported, preventing movement and potential damage during transit.

Maintenance Features

Maintaining the Fishbone Offroad Tackle Rack is straightforward, focusing on ensuring the longevity and safety of the system.

Regular Fastener Checks: The most critical maintenance aspect involves regularly checking all bolts, nuts, and fasteners for tightness. Over time, vibrations from driving, especially off-road, can cause fasteners to loosen. The use of Nyloc nuts in the kit helps to resist loosening, but periodic inspection with a 19mm socket and wrench is recommended to ensure all connections remain secure. This is particularly important for the bed channel mount brackets and any accessory mounts carrying heavy loads.
Thread Locker Application: The instructions mention the use of thread locker, particularly for the bed rack down into the T-nuts on vehicles with the Trail Rail system. Applying thread locker to these critical connections enhances their resistance to vibration-induced loosening, providing an extra layer of security. Users should ensure that thread locker is applied as recommended during installation and consider reapplication if fasteners are ever removed and reinstalled.
Foam Padding Inspection: The adhesive foam padding applied during installation serves to protect both the rack and the vehicle from scratches and wear at contact points. Periodically inspect this padding for signs of wear, tearing, or detachment. If the padding becomes damaged, it should be replaced to prevent metal-on-metal contact and potential damage to the vehicle's finish or the rack's coating.
Corrosion Prevention: While the rack is built from durable materials, exposure to harsh weather, road salt, and off-road elements can lead to corrosion over time. Regularly cleaning the rack, especially after exposure to mud, salt, or chemicals, can help prevent rust. Applying a protective wax or coating, particularly to any exposed metal surfaces or areas where the finish might be scratched, can further extend the life of the rack.
Structural Integrity Check: Periodically inspect the entire rack system for any signs of structural damage, such as bends, cracks, or excessive wear. This includes the arch braces, support braces, and mounting brackets. Any significant damage should be addressed immediately to ensure the rack remains safe and functional. Minor scratches or chips in the finish can be touched up with appropriate paint to prevent rust.
Accessory Mount Maintenance: If accessories are frequently mounted and dismounted, regularly inspect the accessory mounts for wear and tear. Ensure that the bolts and nuts used for these mounts are in good condition and that the mounting points themselves are not compromised. Keeping these areas clean and free of debris will ensure smooth and secure attachment of accessories.

By following these maintenance guidelines, users can ensure their Fishbone Offroad FB22150 Jeep JT Gladiator Tackle Rack remains a reliable and effective cargo solution for many years of adventure.