I'd like to mount up a CB antenna (and not ready to drill yet), and a few extra lights and see quite a few trucks with these "back racks". How are these and how exactly do they mount?

 

I think what you're looking for is called a "headache rack".

 

could you elaborate? i see SO many trucks around here with them and i would like something that doesn't require drilling for lights/CB. Did you have one and did not like it?

 

They come in all shapes, sizes and finishes...depending on what you want. Just about any truck accessory place will have them. It's just a matter of finding the one you like. They typically bolt to the top of the bed rail like a toolbox would.

 

I have had one on my last three trucks. Mine required drilling 4 holes in the top of the bed rails to bolt it down. I have running lights, aux reverse lights, and brake lights mounted to mine as well as my CB antennas. There some versions with legs that extend under a cross bed tool box and are clamped between the bed and the box. The one I have originally had louvers across it but I could not reach the window to clean it so I removed them and replaced them with a few uprights. It was originally taller and had posts for carrying ladders that have been removed. There are several places in Texas that make some very nice, also pricey, ones. I would recomend doing a search for "Headache Rack" and see what you come up with.

 

Always wondered where the words "headache rack" for this type of support originated. Does anyone know?

 

If you do a panic stop or hit someting solid, it keeps the load in back from coming through the rear window and giving you a headache.

 

If you are carrying a load and you stop fast, the headache is caused by the stuff coming through the window and hitting you in the back of the head. The 'headache rack' was designed to stop this. It seemed this occurance was mainly in North Dakota, though.

Mike

 

Bingo,.....we have a winner.......... ;D

 

Haha I thought you guys were saying that backracks themselves ARE a big headache.

 

I didn`t think the dodge could stop fast enough to need aa haedache rack (100,000 + miles original brakes,lots of going but not much stopping) ;D ;D

 

Shovelhead:
Are you using that younger brothers rack? I have checked those out on their website which seems to change about everyother day as far as what is available for sale to the general public. They also make a nice rear bumper but they say it is only available to government agencies for some reason or other. If you do use that rack how is the fit and finish, is it holding up well. TIA for any info you can provide.

 

My 3500 wears a "Cap" www.Jeraco.com

The pic was posted to be sure we were talking about the same thing.

Ed