Will My Old Headache Rack Fit My New Truck?
So, maybe you’ve been driving the same truck for years, but the old girl is showing her age. Maybe it’s time to step up to something heavier duty, has the amenities you want found only on new models, or maybe you’re just ready for a change.
Whatever the reason, buying a brand-new or even a newer used truck can require a big investment beyond the purchase alone. From fuel and maintenance costs to hefty insurance premiums, it pays to do your homework before making the commitment.
If your previous truck had a Spyder Industries headache rack, side steps, rear hoop, or truck accessory, you may be wondering if they will fit on your new truck too. The answer is: It depends.
Here’s what you need to know about your Spyder Industries product before taking a new truck home!
Check the Rack Size
Since all our products are tailored to fit specific years, makes, and models of truck there’s really isn’t anything universal about them other than their unique design and functionality. Determining whether your current Signature Spyder or WerX Series safety rack will fit depends on the make, and model of your new truck. In most cases, if it is the same make and model – just a different year - your current rack should fit. Cosmetic changes by the factory to the grille, bumpers, and other trim over the years is not a problem. When manufacturers introduce new and major body styling however, then all bets are off. Some of the critical dimensions can be different.
If your new truck is an entirely different make and/or model, then the cab rack size will no longer be correct, as originally engineered. For example, racks tailored to fit Ford trucks are typically wider and taller than the same design intended for a Chevy/GM. Chevy truck beds are among the narrowest on the market.
Does that mean the old rack can’t physically be bolted to a truck it wasn’t designed for? Of course not. But a rack that is too big or too small will take away from your new truck’s aesthetics and potentially safety benefits. If the rack is too short your cab will be exposed to damage when hauling long loads. Too narrow and the mounting brackets, unusable. Too wide it will hang off the sides, or the mounts will also be unusable. Too tall or short and the third brake light will be obscured and rear window potentially blocked.
Ensure Your Cab Rack Mounts are Correct
All our headache racks require a set of bed rails (mounts) and other hardware that attach it securely to your specific truck. Most utilize the front stake pocket but there are some cases where no stake pockets exist or they can’t be utilized.
While there is some cross compatibility with bed rails (for example, many Chevy and Dodge models share the same standard bed rail) it’s crucial to confirm you have the correct parts for your new truck.
Our Heavy Duty bed rails are designed to be compatible with tool boxes. They’re not compatible with tonneau covers. If you plan to install a tonneau cover on your new truck you’ll need to confirm your old mounts are the correct type and compatible with your new truck. If they’re not, you’ll need a new set.
Options if it Doesn’t Fit..
Unfortunately, if you’re trying to move your old rack to a truck it wasn’t designed for, there are no special adapters available to make it fit. If the dimensions are close, you might be able to drill new holes in the bed rails or modify them in some way. Either way it will require some test fitting and creativity. Another option is to sell the headache rack, recoup some of your investment, and apply it towards the purchase of another one that will fit your new truck like a glove.
Installing Your Rack on Your New Truck
Designed and handcrafted in the USA (Washington State) our headache racks are intended to be simple to install and use - with strength, durability, and security in mind. After all, you don’t want it flexing back and forth (which can lead to truck or rack damage) or make it easy for thieves to steal one of the best headache racks available.
Most new truck models have a plastic cap to protect the top of the bed sides. The stake pocket location (if it has them) is usually indicated and if a plug isn’t removable, you’ll need to trim a small opening to expose the pocket so a small bracket can be installed inside. A sharp utility knife is all that’s needed. And, the hole doesn’t need to be as large as the pocket opening. Once the bed rails are in place, as instructed, you’ll drill through a supplied hole at the rear of each bed rail to secure it to the bed with included fasteners. This makes for a very rigid, flex-free, and secure installation.
In some rare cases, the truck does not have or can’t use a stake pocket and becomes a drill through application only. Others will use a factory track system built into the truck bed and no drilling is required at all. Check with us is you have any questions or concerns.
Enjoy your new truck
Purchasing a new truck is exciting! While there are many options to consider and decisions to make, with a bit of luck and a little planning you can continue to use and enjoy your existing Spyder Industries Headache Rack for many years to come.For more information on fit and compatibility with your new Chevy, GM, Dodge, Ford, Nissan or Toyota truck, contact us today!
