Guide to Headache Racks for Your Truck
A headache rack is a metal frame or barrier that is mounted behind the cab of a pickup truck or similar vehicle. Its main purpose is to protect the rear window and the occupants of the cab from being hit by loose cargo in the truck bed.
If heavy items slide forward during transport because of heavy braking, or in an accident, the headache rack acts as a shield, preventing the cargo from breaking the rear window or entering the cab.
In addition to its protective function, headache racks can also serve as a mounting point for additional accessories, such as lights, toolboxes, or ladders. They are typically made from steel or aluminum and come in a variety of designs, from simple, basic styles to more elaborate ones that enhance the look of the truck.
What Are Headache Racks Used For?
The addition of a headache rack to your pickup truck provides several benefits that are both protective and useful including the following:
Driver and Passenger Safety - Headache racks are designed for safety. They cover the rear window and cab of the truck with metal bars and/or a wire mesh. This stops materials and tools from breaking through the back window.
Extra Lighting - Headache racks are a great way to mount extra lights without the need to drill into your truck. Off-road lights, lightbars, utility lighting, antennas and more can be mounted to a headache rack.
Theft Prevention - The addition of a headache rack to your pickup truck secures the rear window with bars. This is great for stopping theft or vandalism.
Transporting Ladders & Supplies - Headache racks are the perfect truck accessory for carrying ladders and other long items. They provide an anchor point for securing oversized loads such as building materials, pipes or loading ramps. In general, any object 20 feet long or less.
Tool Storage - With a headache rack, you can secure and haul tools without worrying about them sliding around. The addition of a headache rack to a truck gives you support bars you can hook a bungee cord or ratchet strap to.
No Drill Toolbox Mount - Don’t want to drill into your truck bed to mount a toolbox? Truck Headache racks allow you to install a truck bed toolbox without any drilling.
Appearance - Headache racks can make a truck look more impressive and improve its appearance. This improves resale value as well.
Extra Shade - Louvered headache racks redirect the sunlight away from the cab of your truck. This keeps the truck cab cooler, more comfortable, and the sun's rays from reflecting off the mirror from behind you while driving.
The results of an Asteroids video arcade game sliding in the truck bed. Source: fabozzi.net
How Did Headache Racks Get Their Name?
You may have heard headache racks called many different names from back racks, cab guards and truck racks. Now you’re thinking why are they called headache racks?
There are two different theories on how the name truck headache rack came about.
- The first theory for how they got their name is they prevent headaches from something going wrong, like an accidental window smashing. Headache is used in the context here meaning difficult situations or difficulties in general.
- The second theory for the name headache racks is truck owners being unaware while they’re in the in the bed of their truck - smacking their head on the rack and thus causing a headache.
What are Headache Racks Made Of?
Headache racks are manufactured using four different materials. They are powder-coated steel, stainless steel, aluminum and composite (steel & aluminum). The main materials are powder-coated steel and aluminum.
Steel Headache Racks
Headache racks made from steel are the most common. Steel is a stronger metal that doesn’t bend as easily as aluminum. Also, it costs less and is easier to weld attachments to it.
Steel headache racks can get coated with protective paint. This is to prevent rusting and add corrosion resistance.
Aluminum Headache Racks
Headache racks made from aluminum have their benefits over steel. It’s a lighter metal that is more corrosion-resistant.
What Are Some of the Top Brands for Headache Racks?
BackRack
The BackRack headache rack is a leading option in the market, known for its versatility with multiple models to suit different needs. The basic BackRack model features a sleek, low-profile design with tie-down points, light mounts, and a hassle-free, no-drill installation. It's compatible with bed liners and 21-inch or 31-inch toolboxes without requiring modifications.
Additionally, BackRack offers a louvered version, available in full or half sizes, which helps keep your cab cooler by blocking direct sunlight from the rear window. The low-profile design is finished with a durable powder coat for an appealing appearance.
Aries
Aries is another leading brand in the market, with the Aries AdvantEDGE headache rack being a standout model. This rack is built with robust octagonal tubes, offers an easy no-drill installation, and is designed to work seamlessly with fuel tanks and tonneau covers.
Available in either a sleek carbide black or silver chrome finish, it also includes a convenient track system that provides a quick and flexible solution for mounting tie-downs or lights.
Dee Zee
If you opt for a Dee Zee headache rack, you'll have a variety of options to choose from. One option is the Dee Zee Mesh Headache Rack, which features a heavy-duty mesh for enhanced protection and improved rear visibility. It's built with octagonal aluminum tubes and is available in silver, black gloss, and textured black powder coat finishes, all of which are corrosion-resistant.
This rack is also designed to be compatible with other truck bed accessories. Another model, the Dee Zee Open Headache Rack, doubles as a ladder rack and comes in black, textured black, or silver powder coat finishes. It supports up to 300 pounds and offers an easy, no-drill installation.
Headache Rack Accessories
Light Mounts
Extra lighting equipment can be mounted to headache racks with no drilling. A headache rack light adapter mounts to the rack. The additional lighting helps to see better at night for off-road use or improves visibility at night when backing up.
Tonneau Cover Adapters
Headache racks and tonneau covers can be used together. But, you will need to buy a tonneau cover adapter to mount them.
Truck Toolbox Brackets
Do you have a toolbox in the bed of your truck and want to add a headache rack? Headache racks and truck toolboxes can both be used in your truck with a special toolbox adapter.
How To Install A Headache Rack
Installing a headache rack on your truck involves several steps, and while the exact process can vary depending on the make and model of your truck and the design of the headache rack, here’s a general guide:
Tools and Materials Needed:
- Headache rack kit (including hardware)
- Socket set and wrenches
- Measuring tape
- Drill (if needed for drilling new holes)
- Rubber gaskets or padding (to protect the truck's surface)
- Marker or pencil
- Ladder (if necessary for higher trucks)
Step-by-Step Installation:
- Prepare the Work Area:
Park your truck on a flat, stable surface and ensure the bed is empty.
Clean the area where the headache rack will be installed to remove dirt and debris.
- Position the Headache Rack:
Place the headache rack at the front of the truck bed, aligning it with the cab.
Make sure the rack is centered and that the legs or mounting brackets sit flush with the bed rails.
- Mark the Mounting Points:
Use a marker or pencil to outline the positions where the mounting brackets or legs of the headache rack will be attached to the truck bed.
If your truck bed has existing mounting holes, align the headache rack with them. If not, you’ll need to drill new holes.
- Drill Mounting Holes (if necessary):
If your truck bed does not have pre-drilled holes, use the marked positions to drill new holes.
Start with a small pilot hole, then use the appropriate size drill bit for your mounting hardware.
- Install Rubber Gaskets or Padding:
Place rubber gaskets or padding between the headache rack and the truck bed to protect the paint and reduce vibrations.
- Mount the Headache Rack:
Position the headache rack back onto the truck bed, aligning it with the mounting holes.
Insert the bolts through the headache rack’s mounting points and the truck bed.
On the underside of the bed rail, place washers and nuts onto the bolts.
- Tighten the Bolts:
Use a socket set or wrenches to tighten all bolts securely. Be sure not to over-tighten, as this could damage the bed rails or hardware.
- Check Alignment and Stability:
Ensure the headache rack is straight, centered, and securely fastened. Give it a gentle shake to confirm it’s stable.
- Install Additional Accessories (optional):
If your headache rack has provisions for mounting lights, toolboxes, or other accessories, you can install them now according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Final Inspection:
Double-check all bolts and connections to ensure everything is secure and properly installed.
Tips:
- Always wear safety gear, especially when drilling or working under the truck.
- Ensure that the headache rack is compatible with your truck model and bed size before beginning the installation.
- If the headache rack comes with specific instructions, follow them closely as designs can vary.
Once installed, your headache rack should provide effective protection for your truck cab and rear window while also adding a functional accessory to your vehicle.
H&H can also install headache racks at any of their locations.
Frequently Asked Headache Rack Questions
What is a headache rack used for?
Headache racks are used mainly for protecting passengers in the cab and utility for securing things to the truck bed.
How much weight can a headache rack hold?
Light-duty headache racks are rated to carry between 100-300 lbs. Standard models have a weight capacity of 300-500 lbs. There are heavy-duty models available that support up to 1,000 lbs.
How much are headache racks?
The cost of a headache rack can vary widely depending on factors such as the material, brand, design, and additional features. Here's a general price range to give you an idea:
Basic Headache Racks:
- Price Range: $100 - $300
- These are usually made of steel or aluminum and have a simple, utilitarian design. They provide basic protection and may include a grid pattern or bars but generally lack additional features.
Mid-Range Headache Racks:
- Price Range: $300 - $700
- These racks often have more durable construction and may include features like integrated light mounts, tie-down points, or a more durable finish. They offer a better look and functionality compared to basic models.
High-End Headache Racks:
- Price Range: $700 - $2,500+
- High-end headache racks are usually made from premium materials, such as powder-coated aluminum or stainless steel, and may feature advanced designs with customizable options. They often include additional accessories like built-in LED lights, tool holders, or ladder racks. Most models are also designed for specific truck makes and models, providing a seamless, OEM-like fit.
Can you install a headache rack with a tonneau cover?
Yes, however, to install your headache rack to your truck with a tonneau cover, you’ll need to purchase a tonneau cover headache rack adapter.
Are headache racks universal?
No, headache racks have specific mounting hardware that works for that vehicle model. To find a headache rack that is compatible with your pickup truck, go to the headache rack page, then use the Year/Make/Model search feature on the left of the page to enter your truck’s info.
Once you select the model (ie: F-150) you may have the option to narrow it down even further with the sub-model (ie: King Ranch). You will then see the racks available that will fit your truck.
Can you install both a toolbox and a headache rack in your truck bed?
Yes, it is possible to install a toolbox and a headache rack together. However, it requires a headache rack toolbox mounting kit for it to fit properly.
A Final Word
Headache racks are more than just a protective barrier for your truck; they are an essential accessory that enhances safety and functionality.
Whether you're a tradesperson needing to secure your tools and equipment or a truck owner looking to protect your cab from shifting cargo, investing in a headache rack is a smart choice.
With a wide range of styles, materials, and features available, H&H Truck Accessories has a headache rack to suit every need and budget, ensuring that your truck is not only better protected but also more equipped for all your hauling needs.
Need your headache rack installed? H&H can take care of that at any of their locations.