The STARK 650LB 2-Bar Adjustable Truck Ladder Rack (Item: 26500) is a robust and versatile accessory designed for pickup trucks, enabling the safe and efficient transport of long and bulky items such as ladders, lumber, and pipes. Constructed from heavy-duty, durable steel, this rack is built for high durability and offers an adjustable design to fit a wide range of pickup trucks.
Function Description:
The primary function of this truck ladder rack is to provide a secure and elevated platform for carrying oversized cargo that would otherwise be difficult or unsafe to transport within the truck bed alone. It effectively extends the carrying capacity of a pickup truck, making it ideal for contractors, DIY enthusiasts, and anyone needing to transport long materials. The adjustable nature of the rack allows it to adapt to different truck bed widths and cargo heights, enhancing its utility across various applications.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Load Capacity:
- Rated Capacity: 500 Lbs
- Stationary Capacity: 650 Lbs
- WARNING: Do not exceed 500 Lbs load capacity during use.
- Adjustable Height: Approximately 32 inches plus the height of your truck's bed. This allows for customization based on the cargo and truck configuration.
- Adjustable Width: The rack is designed to fit most pickup trucks, with an adjustable width ranging from a minimum of 5 feet to a maximum of 6 feet where the rack attaches to the truck bed. This ensures compatibility with a broad spectrum of truck models.
- Construction Material: Heavy-duty durable steel, ensuring longevity and resistance to wear and tear under demanding conditions.
- Components: The rack consists of several key components:
- Left Upright (1L): 2 units
- Right Upright (1R): 2 units
- Left Crossbrace (2L): 2 units
- Right Crossbrace (2R): 2 units
- Crossbrace Extension (3): 2 units
- Hardware:
- Hex Bolt 3/8" x 1 3/4": 16 units
- Flat Washer 3/8": 16 units
- Lock Nut 3/8": 16 units
- Alien Head Set Screw 3/8" x 1/2": 12 units
Usage Features:
- Easy Installation: The rack is designed for straightforward installation. The process involves positioning the mounting plates, drilling holes through the truck's bed rail, and securing the upright legs with bolts, washers, and nuts. The crossbraces are then inserted into extensions and secured to the upright legs using allen head set screws.
- Versatile Cargo Transport: Excellent for hauling ladders, lumber, pipes, and other long and big items.
- Adjustable Configuration:
- Height Adjustment: The crossbraces can be flipped to set the rack to either a high or low position, depending on the cargo requirements. The high position is recommended for items like bowed canoes. If the crossbrace is flipped, the caps must be removed and replaced.
- Width Adjustment: The design accommodates varying truck bed widths, making it a universal fit for most pickup trucks.
- Secure Cargo Transport: Emphasizes the importance of securely tying down all loads to prevent movement (vibrating, sliding, being blown off) during transit, especially due to unexpected wind or road hazards.
- Safety Considerations:
- Load Distribution: Users are warned to avoid top-heavy loads to prevent roll-over. High loads require great caution to prevent striking overhead objects or tipping during turns, abrupt stops, or high winds.
- Regular Checks: It is crucial to check all connections for tightness each time the rack is installed, loaded, and on a daily basis. Periodic checks of welds for cracking due to metal fatigue are also recommended.
- Work Area Safety: Users are advised to keep the work area clean, free of clutter, and well-lit during assembly. Children and bystanders should be kept at a safe distance. Awareness of power lines, electrical circuits, water pipes, and other mechanical hazards in the work area is also critical.
- No Modifications: Unauthorized modifications are strictly prohibited as they can impair function, safety, and product life.
Maintenance Features:
- Regular Inspection: Users are instructed to periodically check welds for cracking caused by metal fatigue. This proactive approach helps ensure the structural integrity of the rack over time.
- Tightening Connections: All connections should be checked for tightness each time the rack is installed and loaded, as well as daily during use. This prevents loosening that could compromise safety and stability.
- Cleaning: While not explicitly detailed, general good practice for steel products would suggest keeping the rack clean and free of corrosive materials to prolong its lifespan.
The STARK 650LB 2-Bar Adjustable Truck Ladder Rack is a practical and essential tool for anyone needing to transport long materials with their pickup truck, offering a blend of durability, adjustability, and user-friendly design, all while prioritizing safety through clear warnings and instructions.