It's like Christmas when the FedEx truck pulls up with a big ol' box or boxes fresh from our facility. You've been waiting and are excited...
]]>We do our best to make sure our large and heavy products are packaged in such a away to arrive without damage. Expanding foam is used in corners and other strategic locations to cradle the contents and provide a protective air gap. Other pieces are wrapped in layers of bubble wrap to avoid metal to metal contact.
Most deliveries arrive at their destination without incident. Occasionally a package will be mishandled by the carrier. A small puncture in the box or wrinkled corner may not create any issues to be worried about. But if there's severe damage to the box and you suspect the contents could be damaged, then consider refusing the delivery. The carrier will return it to us for inspection. This is one of the reasons we require a delivery signature. It prevents a driver from dropping a destroyed package at your door and running. (It also helps prevent theft of expensive merchandise).
Opening one of our boxes certainly isn't rocket science but because of the way we package the contents we do suggest you open them a certain way, both for ease in removing the product, and to ensure nothing is left behind inside. Headache racks and rear hoops are packaged in large, clamshell style cartons and stapled on 3 sides. You may be tempted to open just one end of the box and slide everything out. Instead, lay the carton down flat and pull each stapled side loose. You'll likely tear some of the cardboard in the process - that's okay. Once the three sides are loose, the lid should open, revealing everything inside.
If you order a headache rack together with a rear hoop, they may arrive in two boxes bundled together. In this case, be aware that you might find some parts associated with the headache rack, such as the bed rails (mounts), in with the rear hoop. Nuts, bolts, and other fasteners will be in their own small box along with instructions.
Check out this brief video that explains the why's and how's in more detail.
When we started Spyder Industries we not only wanted our headache racks to be among the highest quality and best looking on the market...
]]>In keeping with that philosophy we've introduced the 'Build-A-Rack' Series: Semi-Custom headache racks with designs and other options that, until now, could not be ordered directly through the website - they were a special order, "by request only" deal. What also sets these apart is the ability to experiment with different designs, patterns, and optional add-ons with our exclusive visualizer tool to see what your finished rack will look like - and get instant pricing. Once you're satisfied with a look that fits your budget, you can just drop it in the shopping cart. You design it. We build it. No other manufacturer offers this.
All of our headache racks are hand-crafted in-house from mild steel using special jigs to ensure a high quality fit and superior finish. These headache racks use the same tried-and-true, inner/outer frame construction as our Spyder Series and are the foundation upon which everything else is built.
The frame style you start with will depend on your needs. Do you want complete rear window protection? Start with a full coverage frame. Do you have a sliding rear window and want to be able to pass things through the opening? Then, start with the windowed version. Does your late model truck have an OEM cargo area camera built into the third brake light? In that case, you may want to start with the windowed version for use with OEM cargo area cameras. These will provide an unobstructed view while using the camera.
Remember too, the frame style you choose will also dictate the insert patterns and designs to choose from. For example, we offer wildlife scenes that are only available for the full coverage frame. In any case, if you've seen a picture of one of our semi-custom headache racks in a gallery or on social media in the past, there's a good chance you can get one just like it (or the way you want it) with just a few clicks.
For headache racks involving company logos, unique artwork, or variations not available as a Build-A-Rack product, you'll still need to contact us using the special request form found on the website. There's just a lot more involved to have that type of custom headache rack built.
Check it out, have fun, and get the custom headache rack you've been dreaming about. Your truck will love you!
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We had an opportunity to shoot some video while installing a headache rack and rear hoop rack on a local customer's truck...
]]>The customer also had a late model GMC in which the factory engineers mysteriously designed an odd shaped hole in the plastic trim that surrounds the rear stake pocket in the bed. Starting in around 2015 Chevy/GMC trucks started coming with a non-rectangular shaped opening in the plastic surrounding the rear pocket. It's larger than the stake pocket in some areas and partially covers it in the front. Weird!
The problem with the design is it reduces the vertical stability of anything dropped down into the pocket. Our solution is to provide a pair of spacer blocks or shims that are placed in each pocket on the front surface, below the plastic that overhangs them. A strip of double stick tape will hold them in place when the rear hoop is out of the truck and not in use.
The blocks work quite well and serve as a good solution to an otherwise odd design choice by factory engineers. Once the rear hoop is dropped down into the pockets it is secured in place by a wing bolt through a factory hole inside the bed. No other trucks require a spacer block.
Dodge trucks also use a wing bolt to secure the hoop for quick and convenient removal. But, alas, aluminum body Fords (2015 and up) do not come with any such hole from the factory. The design is prone to crushing so the use of a wing bolt is not advised. For these we provide a hole in the base plate to drill through the bed and secure with a nuts and bolts provided. This downloadable instruction sheet for rear hoops explains how to install (and how installation differs) across various makes and model trucks.
Grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and watch how simple it is to install a headache rack and rear hoop rack by Spyder Industries on most popular pickup trucks.
From time to time, questions come up about our optional add-on LED lights and usually center around connecting them to a trucks' electrical system...
]]>From time to time, questions come up from customers about our optional add-on LED lights for headache racks or side steps and usually center around installing and making the connections to their trucks' electrical system. Here're some answers, the reasoning behind them, and helpful tips.
Question: Does a headache rack with lights come pre-wired or include a harness with switches?
While most lights with wire leads come pre-installed (long LED light bars may be shipped separately) in our headache racks and side steps, the rack itself is not fully wired. We also don't include extra wire, connectors, or switches as part of the installation. "Ugh..." you say? Read on.
One of the reasons is cost. Wire and switches are not expensive but producing a custom wiring harness designed to fit a host of trucks and all their variations would be. We want to keep costs low and know you do too.
Another reason comes down to personal preferences. Until we learn how to read minds we simply don't know where and how you'll prefer to wire them into your truck. There are many ways to do it and the needs vary from customer to customer. Do you want it to come out on the right side or left? Will it need to go into the cab and be switched or tie into the vehicles' rear brake light harness? Do you want to control your lights through an existing switch or add one somewhere else? The answers might be yes, no, or all of the above.
So, rather than you paying us for extra wire and various other bits and pieces that'll end up in the trash because it doesn't suit your needs, we suggest one of the following:
A) DIY - plan things out and pick up the materials needed (ex: a spool of wire, switch(es), butt connectors, splice connectors, terminals, etc.) at any auto parts store. The materials and techniques you choose to make the connections will depend on how tidy and 'professional' you wish the end product to appear and perform. Granted, it takes a little more effort and a touch of skill but if you take your time you'll get years of trouble-free service in return, plus the satisfaction of a custom install tailored to your truck and specific needs.
B) Pop over to Amazon.com or Google and search for 'universal LED light harness'. There are lots of inexpensive kits that include wire, switches, fuses, and connectors. Of course, you'll still need to determine in advance if it'll be long enough, do the job expected, etc. And, some cutting and splicing will probably still be required along with some basic electrical knowledge.
C) We understand that wiring or electrical tasks aren't for everyone. If you're just not comfortable with any of it then we suggest talking with your favorite mechanic or even the service department at a local RV/Trailer dealer. They should be able to get you wired and connected in no time and at a reasonable cost.
Question: I know I'm getting 12 volts to my lights but they don't turn on - what's wrong?
Traditional incandescent style bulbs will usually light up no matter which lead you connect to your power source and ground. All LED lights, on the other hand, whether cube-shaped, light bars, oval-shaped turn signals, or the tiny bulbs available for our side steps are polarity sensitive - there's a positive and negative lead and if you hook them up backwards, they won't light up. Don't worry, you won't hurt them if hooked up backwards.
While it would be nice if all wires were universally color coded it seems some manufacturers like to mix things up. If the wires, lamp housings, or instructions (if included) don't indicate the connections, then it's worth testing in advance to confirm which should be connected to 12 volts and which goes to a good chassis ground.
Here's a video demonstrating how to determine which wire is which before making your final connections...
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]]>This handy little fastener was developed by BF Goodrich in 1936. Learn how to make a simple, DIY tool to make installing these versatile fasteners a breeze...
]]>Ah, the rivet nut. This handy little fastener was developed by BF Goodrich in 1936 to mount rubber de-icing boots to the leading edge of aircraft wings. Initially they were sold under the trademark name RIVNUT®, but today you’ll find various brands in numerous shapes and sizes as a type of blind fastener. Sometimes they're simply referred to as threaded inserts, or generically as Nutserts® (which is also a trademark brand name).
Rivet nuts are often used in thinner gauge materials where strong, load-bearing threads are needed to fasten pieces together or where there’s no access to the back side for a traditional hex nut. At Spyder Industries we use them in the steel tubing of our headache racks for pickup trucks so that you can bolt the adjustable bed rails (or mounts) to the bottom of the rack. Once assembled and properly mounted on your truck, it makes for an extremely strong and rigid installation.
Threaded inserts are used by truck manufacturers in numerous places to attach parts and accessories to sheet metal components. For example, on late model Dodge Ram trucks you might find nut inserts installed by the factory on the back side of the rocker panel for mounting side steps. Our S/I Side Steps for trucks utilize these factory-engineered locations (and others) for easy and secure installation of the steps. Occasionally, the truck may come with holes in the panel but no threaded insert. If those cases, you’ll need to install one or more of the inserts we provide.
Here at our facility we use an expensive, special tool to quickly install rivet nuts where needed. Unless you plan to install a lot of rivet nuts over time it probably doesn’t make sense to go out and buy a tool to do it. Here, we’re going to show you how to make a DIY tool using a nut, bolt, and two washers found at any hardware store.
(1) 1”-2” bolt that is the same size as the threads of the rivet nut.
(1) Flat Washer for under the head of the bolt.
(1) Nut - larger than the bolt threads so it will just slip over the bolt.
(1) Internal star lock washer.
Push the rivet nut into the hole. A snug fit is better than a sloppy one. This won’t work well if the hole is too big. With your DIY tool assembled in the order described above, thread it into the insert until it bottoms out. Put a wrench on the oversized nut to prevent it from spinning and a socket on the bolt head. Now, while holding the box wrench, start tightening the bolt. This will collapse the rivet nut on the back side and lock it into the hole. There’s no need to go ‘gorilla’ on it, just stop when it won’t tighten any more. If it’s not tightened enough, you risk the nut insert spinning in the hole later – which you definitely don’t want. Now you can just back the bolt out of the insert. You’re done!
You can use this same technique to install rivet nuts in steel, plastic or other materials where a threaded hole is needed on your truck and other methods of attaching parts or accessories just won’t work. But a picture's worth a thousand words so below is a video demonstrating the steps we’ve outlined. You’ll see just how easy it is to install these specialty fasteners without special tools - it just requires a little DIY ingenuity.
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Choosing the Brake/Turn LED add-on option for your headache rack is a great way to increase safety and add visibility to your truck...
]]>Wiring these lamps (or any other of our lighting options) isn't particularly difficult but there are a couple of tricks that will make the job that much easier. This article won't cover the ins and outs of actually making the wire connections. For that, you'll want to check out our article, "How do I Wire my Add-On Lights?" Instead, we'll show you how to remove and install the oval shaped brake/turn LED lamps, whether you've got a double, quad, or triple (6) lamp setup.
The brake/turn LED lamps come pre-installed in our headache rack and they'll need to be removed to make the wiring connections. Rather than trying to pull the entire assembly out of the rack at once, you should first pop the LED light out of the rubber grommet - which is easier said than done.
A rounded tool, such as a spoon from your kitchen, is as high tech as you need to get. Slip the spoon in between the end of the lamp and the grommet and gently pry it out. If the spoon is inserted far enough it will catch the seam on the lamp and lift out without much trouble. The grommet will easily come out now too.
Each lamp has a pigtail with color coded wires and the connections are marked on the housing. Inside the light "boxes" on the rack you'll find holes for chasing wires through the outer tube of the rack. If you ordered other auxiliary lights you'll find a hole to bring wires into the box as well. Once the connections are make (quick disconnects or properly crimped/soldered connections recommended) you can chase the wires through the provided holes for a clean looking installation on our truck.
To re-install the lamps on the rack, start with the rubber grommet. It's soft and pliable so just press it into place. Making sure the wires are inside the box and won't get pinched, insert an end of the LED lamp into the end of the grommet at an angle to get it started and then gently press the remainder in place. The lamp will lock everything together and prevent it from falling out.
And, that's it! With your wiring exiting the provided hole on either leg of the rack you're ready to complete your electrical connections. If you're not comfortable doing the wiring yourself then we suggest talking with your favorite mechanic or even the service department at a local RV/Trailer dealer.
Here's a video that demonstrates the tips shared in this article:
When shopping for headache racks for your pickup truck, you’ll see two materials primarily used across the industry: steel and aluminum...
]]>When shopping for a back rack for your pickup truck, you’ll see two materials primarily used across the industry: steel and aluminum. Both are man-made alloys. Some headache rack manufacturers choose steel and others aluminum. Both have their pros and cons. So, which is better for you and your truck? Well, that’ll depend on our priorities but at Spyder Industries we build our racks using high-quality steel that we believe is the best choice for several reasons.
Here are some things to consider when choosing the best truck rack for your needs.
Purchasing a truck accessories is an investment. You want to know products are going to be strong enough to do the job and how long they're going to last. While technology now makes it possible to extrude aluminum to make it sturdier than it used to be, steel still comes out the winner for strength and durability.
Since the purpose of a headache rack is, first and foremost, to protect the truck cab and its occupants, tie down cargo, and better allow you to haul long loads, it’s essential to use strong material. For heavy duty jobs where strength and durability are the most important factors, steel is a better option. And, with its unique inner-outer frame construction, a rack by Spyder Industries will outlast many of its aluminum competitors.
One of aluminums’ biggest advantages is that it’s lighter than steel. This could make an aluminum rack a little easier to handle while installing it and perhaps offer a tiny, tiny advantage in gas mileage, but that’s about it.
While aluminum might score a point on weight, we think the advantages of steel still outweigh it.
As with all purchases, cost is a consideration. Generally, you can find a safety rack made from either material at a price that will suit your budget. Of course, there’s more that goes into determining price than just the material. Steel tends to be less expensive and easier to work with, which keeps costs down.
We live in a time when you don’t have to settle for function over form. If you don’t like the design of a rack (and frankly, there are a lot of ugly ones on the market) there’s no need to buy it. You can still find a high-quality rack that you love and that complements the look for your Chevy, Ford, Dodge, Nissan, or Toyota pickup.
With that said, aluminum and steel truck racks may appear strikingly different. Because bare steel can rust, steel racks must be coated with something to prevent rust. At Spyder we use a high quality two-stage powder coat process. After the steel has been properly prepped, a tough epoxy coat is applied and baked, followed by the topcoat which is also baked. Since powder coat is tougher than paint, it provides a durable finish that prevents rusting and keeps it looking great for many years.
Aluminum will typically not have a coating so it will appear naturally metallic. Otherwise, they are painted or powder coated for cosmetic reasons. While uncoated aluminum won’t rust, it can still oxidize and even corrode under some conditions.
Naturally, the decision to use a steel or aluminum headache rack in your truck is up to you. We are dedicated to building tough, long-lasting back racks that combine outstanding form and function with the kind of rugged quality we insist on for our own vehicles - the kind of quality you expect and demand, day in and day out. That’s why we choose the strength and durability of steel with a powder coat finish to preserve its good looks.
Be sure to check out our unique line of Signature Spyder and WerX Series pickup truck headache racks.
]]>So, maybe you’ve been driving the same truck for years but the old girl is showing her age or getting tired. Maybe it’s time to step up to something...
]]>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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
Owning a lifted truck comes with its own set of advantages. A lifted truck gives you increased ground clearance and the ability to cross obstacles...
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Owning a lifted truck comes with its own set of advantages. A lifted truck gives you increased ground clearance and the ability to cross obstacles that would stump other vehicles, and a better perspective of the road around you. Plus, lifted trucks just look cool. But, as any lifted truck owner can tell you, those benefits don’t come without a cost. Getting in and out of one isn’t always easy and the climb, for some, can be awkward, if not an outright chore!
Fortunately, there are plenty of aftermarket accessories designed to make accessing the cockpit of your truck nearly as easy as slipping behind the wheel of the average sedan. Side steps for trucks are available on the market in a variety of shapes and styles. You’ll typically find simple hoop steps, nerf bars, and running boards that all make getting in and out of your truck easier – but many are not without their disadvantages.
Side steps by Spyder Industries are unique in many ways – not only in design and appearance but in construction. The main heavy wall steel tube is tucked up close to the body for a sleeker look that still offers valuable protection to your rocker panels. Unlike flat running boards that can get smashed or bent in a low-to-no ground clearance situation, ours can glide over or slice through obstacles. The ‘dropped’ part of the steps are available in two pad sizes, depending on your preference and our triple step configuration offers easier bed-side access which is particularly handy with lifted trucks.
In most cases, installing the best steps for lifted trucks is easy enough that you can do it yourself, without the help of a professional. Read on to learn how you can enjoy the benefits of side steps on your lifted truck with quick and simple do-it-yourself installation.
Spyder Industries side steps are tailored to fit specific truck models in both length and step location. While the steps themselves appear the same, the mounting brackets are unique to each truck. Rather than bolting the brackets to the truck chassis (which would require very long, bulky pieces) we’ve designed our steps to use the same mounting location the truck manufacturers have engineered for OEM steps. Using existing factory holes found in the rocker panels, cab structure, and pinch weld (combined with our beefy ¼” thick steel brackets) make for a very sturdy and flex-free installation.
Before you set aside time to install your side steps, open the package and find the instructions (or download them here). Make sure you can account for all the boxed/bagged parts and fasteners detailed in the instructions. Since some pieces are driver and passenger side specific it might help to lay out the parts in their approximate location next to the truck. You can set them on a layer of cardboard or blankets for protection.
Safety is a concern when working on any vehicle so be sure to take a few basic precautions. If you must jack the truck up to gain access, use proper stands to support the vehicle. In some cases you should chock the wheels to prevent accidental rolling. Wear eye protection to keep dirt and crud from invariably landing in your eyes. Don’t do drugs or alcohol. Consider a fresh pair of clean underwear in the unlikely but possible event something goes horribly wrong. This could help save some embarrassment when the paramedics arrive. (Okay, those last couple of tips were just to get your attention. But seriously, it pays to be safe and prepared).
The first step will be to install the mounting brackets to the truck. This is easily a one-person job but two people can speed things up. Either way when the time comes you’ll probably want a second pair of hands to help lift the steps into place and install the remaining nuts and bolts by hand. It’s not rocket science and if your helper can lift a few pounds and remember righty-tighty, lefty-loosey, they’re qualified for the job.
Your truck will have some combination of holes (possibly even threaded) that’ll be used to attach our brackets using the supplied hardware. It varies from truck to truck but will involve removing rubber plugs, installing clips, and so forth. When those are in place, you’ll hang each bracket loosely with the fasteners just finger tight for now. Some brackets consist of two pieces so a little extra assembly may be required.
Once you have the mounting brackets in place (and with some help) simply lift the steps into position and secure them to the brackets using the nuts, bolts, and washers provided. (TIP: Slip the large bolts through the holes in the step first before lifting it into position). Since everything was assembled a little loose with the fasteners only finger tight, you’ll have some adjustability. Adjust the height of the steps to your liking and start tightening bolts with a wrench. And that’s pretty much it. You’re ready to enjoy your new side steps! As an extra safety measure check all the fasteners after a week of driving to make sure everything is still tight.
Side steps can make a big impact on the ease of entering your lifted truck. Even a moderately handy truck owner can install our side steps without any special tools or skill, saving time and money. Learn more about Spyder Industries S/I Steps for lifted (or stock height) trucks here.
And here's a video demonstrating how to install a set of our triple steps on a late model Dodge Ram...
If there’s one thing you can say about truck owners, it’s that they love their trucks. A car is something you might have to get you from point A to point B...
]]>If there’s one thing you can say about truck owners, it’s that they love their trucks. A car is something you might have to get you from point A to point B. A truck, however, has to do much more than that. Whether you need your truck for your job or for work projects in your spare time, to ensure that it’s performing to the best of its ability it’s important that it has the tools necessary to do the job and look good doing it. Among all the alterations you can make to your truck, headache racks are perhaps the most functional. When you’re ready to add a headache rack to your own truck, here are some reasons why the WerX Series headache rack by Spyder Industries may be the best headache rack for trucks.
The first requirement of any headache rack or back rack is to protect the truck and its passengers. If you’re going to carry items on a regular basis, you’ll want something between your rear window and your cargo. Items like lumber or pipes can cause all sorts of damage to your vehicle. The all-steel construction of the WerX Series headache rack protects the cab from most anything that might come loose and fly in its direction. Also, by having that extra layer of protection, whatever your carrying won’t bump into the cab while you’re driving or loading and chip the paint. For both safety and aesthetic reasons, the WerX Series headache rack can save you money in paint and body repairs down the road.
Back Racks make it easier to stack and haul long cargo in your truck. Couple the rugged-built WerX Series with optional lumber stops and you can carry more items without worrying about them breaking the rear window or denting the top of your cab. Tie-downs also come standard so you can better utilize and even expand your cargo capacity without the risk losing anything.
The WerX Series headache rack is made with the working truck in mind. If you rely on your truck for more than just moving your friends’ furniture around, you’ll appreciate the WerX’s adaptability for whatever your job requires. The frame is designed to accommodate add-ons, such as strobe lights, work lights, lumber stops, antennae, LED lights, and more. Accessories become tools that can easily be added or removed as needed.
Not everyone considers aesthetics a high priority, but regardless of its importance to you, you’ll appreciate the attractive design of the WerX Series headache rack. With its unique shape and distinctive insert, it looks better as you add accessories until you have the fully kitted truck you’ve always wanted. It’s the kind of thing you might not care about at first, but you’ll soon discover you wouldn’t have it any other way.
Between its good looks, functionality, and extreme adaptability, the WerX Series headache rack by Spyder Industries is quickly becoming known as perhaps the best headache rack on the market. Order yours today!
]]>When it comes to looking after your truck, you’re probably hoping to strike the perfect balance between security and style...
]]>Naturally, every truck is different, as are their owners. Some truck owners prefer a high-performance vehicle with lifted suspension, while others simply want a rig that they can depend on daily. We've done our best to create back racks suited for all types of trucks and all types of owners. There’s no shortage of options available when it comes to finding the best rack to fit your wants or needs.
In this industry, you generally get what you pay for. While other manufacturers may be happy cranking out inexpensive, mass-produced products that quickly deteriorate, we believe products should be built to last – and we put the extra effort into the manufacturing process.
For example we choose to build our products from heavy gauge steel that is fully welded for strength and durability. The metal is protected using a two-step powder coat finish: An epoxy primer coat that is baked, followed by the colored top coat that is baked again.
This provides truck owners with peace of mind knowing that their headache rack will hold up and be able to serve them for many years to come.
Unsatisfied with the options available from competitors? Spyder Industries tackles the issue by offering an array of optional truck accessories to boost the functionality of your headache rack – making it more useful to you and your unique lifestyle. Whether you’re eager to add LED lighting or lumber stops for added convenience, you’ll enjoy customizing your rack to fit your exact needs.
Some manufacturers value cheap, large-scale production over quality craftsmanship. Not Spyder. Each and every one of our headache racks is built with the individual customers’ needs in mind. Your truck is an important part of your life, which is why we'll never sell a product that the company isn’t proud to stand behind.
Another thing that sets our truck racks apart from the competition is the ability to customize the appearance and add options that best fit your wants or needs. Lumber stops, grab handles, LED lights - whatever it may be - are purpose built right into the rack when it's handcrafted specially for you. You can even take it to the next level with custom artwork or a business logo integrated into the design, for a one-of-a-kind cab protector you won't find anywhere else. Contact Spyder Industries or call toll-free (877) 665-6705 to begin working on your custom headache rack today!
]]>Maybe you heard someone talk about a cab protector and wondered what that is. Well, a cab protector is a vital safety accessory for trucks...
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Cab protectors, or headache racks for trucks, are typically installed to separate you and your passengers from heavy equipment or materials loaded into the truck bed. Cargo in the truck bed can come loose when you come to a hard stop or during a collision with another vehicle, and break through the rear window. If this happens, you and your passengers can be hit by the cargo. Your head and neck are especially vulnerable. Legend has it that this is where the alternate term ‘headache rack’ comes from. Headache racks for trucks also protect the cab and rear window from being scratched, scraped, or broken while you or others are loading or using equipment inside the truck bed.
You can get a custom-built headache rack with brake/turn signals and other auxiliary lighting. Fifth wheel or gooseneck trailers can partially obscure the brake lights. The extra lights make your truck easier to see and avoid during low visibility conditions at night or during stormy weather. You can get headache racks built for your specific brand of truck, such as the Ford headache rack for trucks, which comes in several designs and additional options.
Even if you aren’t the type of person who hauls heavy equipment or materials, you can still use a headache rack to help ward off thieves. While a headache rack won’t prevent break-ins, the best headache racks are made from rugged steel that’ll block access to your cab through the back window. At the very least it’ll discourage vandalism to very expensive rear glass.
Headache racks give you the ability to stack more items on top of each other. Properly used, the rack will hold the items securely in place so they won’t fall out. You can also transport items, that would otherwise be too long to fit in the truck bed, above the cab of the truck. When coupled with a rear hoop, the headache rack’s unique design can double, or even triple, the amount of cargo space your truck can handle. For more information regarding headache racks, aka: cab protectors, contact Spyder Industries today.
Whether you use your truck to carry heavy cargo or not, protecting the cab and its occupants is of utmost importance. ..
]]>A headache rack is a metal frame that is placed behind the cab of a utility truck or pickup. Sometimes it is referred to as a cab protector or rear window guard. Generally, it is an inverted U-shaped structure that fits across the width of the bed and follows the shape of the cab. The inside of the framework may be filled with a mesh, louvers, or other design. Sometimes it is left open or may include an opening to give access to the rear window.
There are many reasons to buy a Ford F-150 headache rack or customized headache rack for other makes and models. Some people use them to simply protect their truck from damage, while others reason they help reduce the amount of heat and sunlight through the rear window. Here are the top reasons why you should consider protecting your truck's cab with a headache rack.
When driving a pickup truck, there are instances when you may need to suddenly stop. Cargo in the rear that isn’t properly secured can potentially shift and strike the rear window causing significant damage. With a headache rack in place, your cab, as well as its occupants, will be kept safe. If you haul a payload often, you should definitely consider a headache rack for those instances when you might have to make an emergency stop. It’s a sure way to keep you and the cab safe from shifting cargo. The headache rack can also help prevent any accidental damage to the back window when loading or unloading the bed. (If you haul firewood, for example, you’ll know exactly what we mean).
A headache rack alone or paired with a rear hoop can enable you to carry longer items such as ladders or lumber. This frees up bed space for other material.
If you spend a lot of time at work or play with your truck you’ll want to consider lighting. A headache rack is the perfect place to mount auxiliary lighting – whether for safety or those times you could use extra some light after the sun goes down.
While a headache rack may not prevent break-ins, it can block access to your cab through the back window or discourage vandalism to very expensive rear glass.
A headache rack is an important accessory for keeping your truck safe if you heavy cargo or other materials in the truck bed. If you're serious about protecting your truck cab and passengers, contact Spyder Industries today for the best headache racks for Ford F150's, Dodge / RAM, Chevy, Nissan, and Toyota pickup trucks.
]]>Without a headache rack properly installed on your pickup truck, you may find yourself losing cargo. That means you may not only lose...
]]>Without a headache rack properly installed on your pickup truck, you may find yourself losing cargo. That means you may not only lose what you're transporting, but you might also inadvertently cause an accident. Instead, consult someone about custom headache racks for your truck. Custom built headache racks are made to help you transport long cargo like lumber or PVC pipe.
Once you have the perfect custom headache rack for your pickup and are ready to put it to use, the next step is securing your cargo. You can never be overly cautious. The cargo itself is prone to move around with a mind of its own. Bumps or sudden stops can send unsecured cargo flying. To prevent it from doing damage or disappearing it may need straps or bungee cords to keep it in place. Bungee cords are good for lighter items, while straps are better if you are dealing with heavier cargo.
In some situations, you may want to utilize a net or tarp to help keep your cargo in place or otherwise protect it. The big concern, however, is that it must properly cover whatever is inside your truck bed. Lighter cargo or lawn debris may blow out. Even the tarp itself, if not adequately secured, can come loose in the wind. Note that while nets, tarps, and bungee cords might be fine when carrying lighter loads, if you plan to haul heavy materials, consider using straps instead.
Though you might want your truck to be able to haul an elephant or two, the reality is that your truck can only take so much weight. So, to avoid safety hazards and potential damage to your truck while driving, look for the gross vehicle weight rating, or GVWR. This will determine how much load capacity your truck has. Exceeding the number could result in serious injury to you or others and damage to your vehicle.
To properly sort your load, you should place heavier items toward the front while lighter items should go toward the back. If you have items that are all of equal weight, simply stack them from the front to the back. Excessive weight at the very rear of the truck bed could upset the center of gravity and create potentially unsafe conditions.
To help ensure that everything stays tied down, take advantage of built in anchor or tie-down points. By design, these are a natural place to attach straps and bungee cords. Be careful attaching straps to other areas like sheet metal edges as they may be bent. Not all trucks are designed with tie-downs in mind so some modifications may be required. Our headache racks and rear hoops have anchor points built-in or are available as options.
When you're transporting loose items, consider tying them together. For example, a load of lumber is much easier to control if it’s bundled together and tied down. Our headache racks have an available lumber stop option and our rear hoops include them, standard. Bundled together and properly secured, hauling lumber or other long, loose items is a breeze.
Take precautions to transport your load safely. Don't rush things. Take the time to tie cargo down and make sure that everything is properly secured before you start driving. Nothing should be left loose. Don't carry loads that your truck isn't designed to handle. When in doubt, double check everything and above all, drive safely.
For the best pickup truck accessories including custom built headache racks, call Spyder Industries today!
A headache rack is a practical and beautiful accessory for a truck, but the options available on the market aren't always what you're looking for...
]]>Perhaps the most common and popular options are lumber stops and grab handles. Both are great additions. Whether you’re a contractor or weekend warrior, either of these may be less of an option and more an essential addition. Lumber stops help control long loads, such as lumber, pipe, or ladders that extend over your cab. Grab handles not only provide easier bed access from the side (especially on lifted trucks) but also double as convenient tie down points.
While auxiliary lighting adds to the aesthetics of an already beautiful truck – their benefit goes way beyond good looks. A headache rack with lights provides great utility. They can dramatically improve visibility – whether lighting the road ahead of you (traditionally) or the work area behind your cab. They’ll help extend your work or play time long after the sun goes down. Even if you only need them occasionally, LED lights are a smart choice and can prove essential in critical situations. Whether you need them periodically or once in a great while, don't dismiss how beneficial auxiliary LED lighting can be.
A pickup truck is meant to be used. Whether you rely on your pickup for daily work or not, there's bound to be a time when your load doesn't quite fit the bed. And while they're always good to have, bungee cords can only do so much. A rear hoop makes carrying long cargo much safer and easier to secure. And integrated lumber stops provide additional side to side load control
A headache rack is already a great option for a work truck. A rear hoop adds even more functionality and style to an already wise choice.
Contact the expert team at Spyder Industries to learn more about headache racks and customization options.
]]>There is often confusion as to why truck racks are often referred to as headache racks. The answer may be obvious to anyone who owns one of these...
]]>Truck racks have become a popular accessory, increasing in presence with more and more people buying trucks. Yet there is often confusion as to why truck racks are often referred to as headache racks. The answer may be obvious to anyone who owns one of these useful accessories, but those who are unfamiliar with headache racks may avoid them because of the seemingly negative nickname. Before you make any assumptions about this product, learn about what they are, what their purpose is, and a few possibilities for where the nickname originates.
Before talking about why truck racks are called headache racks, it is important to first understand what headache racks are and how they are used. A headache rack is a truck accessory that can be added to the truck bed. The product may be made out of aluminum or steel (ours are steel) and it sits on the truck’s bed rails right behind the cab.
Headache racks have been growing in popularity, likely because they have many purposes. Their main purpose is to prevent items from potentially sliding into the cab’s rear window, but some have additional functions, like the ability to hold certain items upright or support long loads. They also give your truck an upgraded, modern look. There are many different styles of truck racks on the market, making it possible to find one that will match the look and functions you desire.
One theory about why truck racks are commonly called headache racks is simply that these accessories prevent headaches. The rack offers a protective shield for the cab and the people inside the cab of the truck. Without a truck rack, heavy items in the bed of the truck could easily slide through the rear window of the cab and potentially strike the driver or passengers in the head. During a sudden stop, your cargo will not be able to get past a headache rack, saving you from a potential hit on the head and money in damage repairs. Fixing a broken rear truck window or damaged cab can be very expensive -- far more money than you would spend by proactively purchasing one of these protective racks.
An opposing theory for why truck racks are called headache racks is that they can cause headaches - literally. Some believe that the cross bars of the rack can be an easy target for careless truck owners to smack their heads on. This belief stems from anyone who has loaded or unloaded the back of a truck, stood up too quickly, and smacked their heads on the rack - resulting in a tremendous headache. This theory is less likely since custom built headache racks definitely solve more problems than they create. Watch your head!
This useful and stylish piece of equipment can save you a lot of hardship and money while improving the look of your truck. Now’s the time to prevent future headaches, both for you and your truck, by shopping for the best headache racks from Spyder Industries.
The team at Spyder Industries is well-versed in manufacturing truck accessories. Here are some tips on what to look for when selecting a side-entry step...
]]>There are two primary reasons that truck owners decide to install a lift kit on their favorite pickup: looks and functionality. Most lifted truck owners love how their truck looks with the kit. It can make a pickup stand out in a crowd, and it gives drivers an unparalleled view of the road. Other truck owners need the extra few inches of ground clearance that a lift kit provides. If you routinely drive off-road, for either work or recreation, a little bit of extra ground clearance is never a bad thing.
Once a lift kit is installed, the next issue to address is the practical challenge of getting into and out of the vehicle. Those extra 3 or 4 inches may not sound like much until you start to realize what it takes to get seated behind the wheel day after day.
The solution to the problem is simple: side-entry steps. However, no two steps are made alike. The team at Spyder Industries is well-versed in manufacturing truck accessories. Here are some tips on what to look for when selecting a side-entry step.
A side step with minimal drop height is about as useful as a screen door on the bottom of a boat—it technically fills the need but is of absolutely no practical use. Ideally, you want at least 4 inches of drop on your step, which is enough to offset or exceed the height of most lifted trucks. The rationale is straightforward. Many truck manufacturers have been in business for more than 100 years now. They know the amount of standard ground clearance pickups need. A low step for a lifted truck makes entry and egress as natural as can be expected.
A step is only useful when you don’t have to think about it. If you have steps in your home, odds are you could walk up and down them blindfolded. Safety and common sense say that’s not a good idea, but the point is you know and trust the steps well enough to theoretically do so. Conversely, your first instinct when ascending a new set of stairs for the first time is to grab the handrail.
Spyder Industries side steps are built with 5 inches of depth, which is enough support for drivers with the biggest feet. Get into the cab by planting the ball of your foot squarely in the middle of the wide step. Exit by finding the step with your heel. The wide platform not only accommodates big feet, but also the big boots that protect them.
The holes in side steps for lifted trucks have nothing to do with aerodynamics. They have everything to do with your safety. Shoes and boots tend to pick up and carry the mud, slush, dirt, and debris that you must walk through on a daily basis. The holes in your side step make sure that it doesn’t get as slick as the parking lot you just crossed. Plus, the holes offer extra traction and are designed to grip the aggressive treads found on most boots.
Spyder Industries makes some of the best side steps for lifted trucks. Established in 2009, Spyder Industries prides itself on making quality truck accessories right here in the USA. Contact us today to learn more!
]]>Headache racks are meant to protect the back of the truck from shifting cargo and also help protect the life of the driver...
]]>No one is sure about how the word headache rack came about. Some say the name came about from the fact that it prevents head injuries to truck drivers when cargo breaks loose. Others claim it was named so because of the tendency of drivers to slam their heads on the racks when hooking and unhooking the trailers. Regardless of its name, headache racks are meant to protect the back of the truck from shifting cargo and the life of the truck driver.
Here’s how a truck headache rack can help save your life.
There are several precautions to take to ensure that the load you're transporting behind your truck is secure. Driving trucks comes with certain risks regardless of whether the driver is skilled, or the load is secure. For instance, the location and weight of the cargo can lead to the shifting of the center of gravity, making it difficult to maintain its position during emergency braking and accident avoidance maneuvers. The best way to protect the driver from such risks is by the installation of custom headache racks for trucks.
Apart from securing the load, it is important to have a barrier between you and the load you are transporting. When the truck comes to a sudden stop, the cargo behind can be launched forward and even break through the rear cab window, causing injuries and sometimes death to the driver and any other passenger seated in front. Custom headache racks for pickups and trucks will help prevent such an occurrence. Even if you crash or come to a sudden stop, the headache rack will protect you from being hit by the cargo. This is the one moment when you will owe your life to headache racks.
The window right behind the driver can easily break. Cases have been reported where cargo breaks loose, slamming into the window and even causing injuries to the driver. Getting injuries is the least that can happen in such scenarios with death being the ultimate price to pay. You don't want to take such chances when innovative companies such as Spyder Industries have come up with the best form of protection for you. Installing a headache rack will save not only your life, but it will also prevent your expensive pickup or truck window from breaking.
The best thing about custom-made headache racks is that there's one for every truck. These racks not only protect the cargo, but can also help save the lives of the driver and passengers in front in case of an accident. Do not take the risk of driving your truck or pickup without a headache rack. Contact Spyder Industries to get a custom-built headache rack for your vehicle today.
You love your truck. But after you drove your truck off the lot, you may have discovered that it was missing a certain something...
]]>Lifted trucks are great for traversing challenging terrain, but it can be a bit more difficult when it comes to entering and exiting. Typically, you’ll find flat running boards or tubular nerf style bars on the market. Spyder Industries uses a unique square tube design with individual drop steps – in single, double, or triple step configurations - depending on cab style and length desired. Unlike flat running boards, we designed our steps with open steel treads for extra traction and less debris for added safety and. Optional LED lights can be added and wired to provide additional light while climbing in and out of your truck in the dark. Built to blend with the appearance of your truck and bolt securely to the body, side steps for lifted trucks are a great accessory for people who want something practical and visually appealing.
While headache racks are designed to look nice and enhance the appearance of any truck, it's the safety advantage that most truck owners really value. Without one, all it takes is a shift in load and you have a broken back window, damaged cab, or worse, an injured occupant. Whether you're hauling exceptionally heavy or awkward loads, a headache track allows you to carry them with added security and protection against harm.
All the above accessories offer some sort of practical benefit. Rear hoops are no exception. Our half or three-quarter height rear hoops allow you to haul extra-long loads safely and securely without the bulk of a traditional equipment rack. Because they’re not the same height as the headache rack at the front of the truck bed, it’s much easier to load lumber, pipe, or even kayaks on lifted trucks. Best of all, the angle helps prevent long, flexible loads from slipping and damaging the top of your truck cab. And, when not in use, they can quickly and easily be removed until needed again.
Accessories like these keep your truck looking great while giving you the freedom to tackle nearly any job. If you're interested in these or other truck accessories, be sure to drop us a line or give us a call for recommendations and advice.
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A headache rack helps keep passengers in a truck cab safe from the cargo in the bed of the truck as well as protecting the load itself...
]]>Of course, a major reason people install custom made headache racks is to make it easier to transport cargo safely. With a custom rack, you can easily secure awkward items like ladders, tool boxes, or other heavy cargo without worrying about it sliding into your back window and breaking it.
When you choose a custom rack, you can have your company logo added to boost advertising potential with your company truck. This advertisement is more than a simple sticker added to the rack; you can actually get the logo cut out of metal and powder coated in specific colors to make it look clean and professional.
You can customize your headache rack to fit your personal tastes and needs by adding other accessories at the time it’s ordered. Most are fully integrated and permanent additions ready for use when you are. You can choose auxiliary lighting, grab handles, lumber stops, and other accessories to make your rack more functional and better looking.
Another important thing to consider is how practical a headache rack is, especially compared to other full-size equipment racks. A rack tailored to fit behind the cab protects the bed and body of your track from dents and dings if your load shifts around. It's also easier to maneuver your truck with this type of rack, because you don't have to worry about clearance when going in garages or parking structures. There are different styles you can choose from to ensure the practicality you need without reducing visibility out the back window. Check out our online store for information on custom-built headache racks.
]]>Form, function, or price. Pick any two. While this play on an old axiom might be true, we aim to blur the lines with three different lines of headache racks...
]]>Here’s a rundown on what makes each one a little different to help you decide which might be best for you and your truck.
The Spyder Series is our signature line of headache racks for trucks. It started with our iconic spider web pattern and has grown to include other insert styles such as louvers, grates, and even wildlife art – all within our unique inner/outer frame construction (a design feature that other manufacturers have started to mimic). Since all our racks are hand-built and made to order, optional add-ons like angle horns/lumber stops, grab handles, and LED lighting are fully integrated into the rack while it’s being fabricated. Our racks are tailored to fit each truck model to look their best and perform as they should. The Spyder Series headache rack frame also serves as the foundation for our ever-popular custom logo racks for businesses.
If you want a premium, top-of-the-line headache rack that won’t disappoint, this is the one. They’re priced at or below others in their class.
For the customer who needs to be able to change the functionality of the rack before and after purchase, then the WerX series might be for you. The WerX Rack is a rugged headache rack ideally suited for commercial, fire, emergency, and municipal customers that can be adapted and modified at any time.
It features a simpler frame design with special bracketry and ties-downs built right in – all at a price point below any of our other headache racks. We created optional add-ons like strobe light mounts, LED lighting, antenna/PA speaker mounts, and lumber stops that can be bolted-on, allowing the customer to easily reconfigure the rack on any given vehicle. The WerX Rack is one of the most versatile headache racks available on the market. It’s the ‘Transformer’ of headache racks.
For the budget conscious enthusiast, Spyder Industries offers the Econo-Rack – a bit of a cross between the Spyder Series and WerX with a simple frame design and the popular spider web pattern. It features the same heavy duty, high-quality construction, same tough powder coat finish, and same warranty as our other headache racks. Lumber stops and eye hooks for load control are also standard.
These are intended for full-size pickups only and are made in three basic sizes, so they are a little more universal in nature. Customers receive one that will best fit their particular truck. No other options are available.
]]>When Spyder Industries was born in 2009 we set out to manufacture some of the toughest, long-lasting vehicle accessories on the market....
]]>Our headache racks are handcrafted from American steel, carefully jig-welded by skilled craftspeople, and finished to perfection right here in the middle of Washington state. Our craftsmen (and craftswoman!) take pride in their work - and it shows. Customer after customer tell us that when they open the package that arrives at their door, the quality and workmanship exceeds their expectation. The same customers return for more, again and again.
There are less expensive alternatives out there - there always will be. But the old adage, 'You get what you pay for' is true and once you see our product we think you'll agree they're worth every penny. Tough, durable, built-to-last. Why settle for anything less?
We get customers from across the country and all walks of life looking for the best headache rack for their truck. Construction workers, tradesmen, outdoorsmen, and more want a headache rack built tough enough to withstand the rigors of daily use - on and off the job. They want a headache rack that will not only enhance the look of their truck but do what a headache rack is supposed to do: protect their cab, rear window, and occupants from damage or personal injury. But it doesn’t stop there. Our customers want to be able to do more with their truck rack, so we offer useful add-ons so they’re able to haul longer loads safely, access their truck beds more easily, and light up their environment when it’s needed.
Discerning business owners are also turning to Spyder Industries for a unique twist on headache racks that you won’t find anywhere else: advertising. We help step-up your game with custom color logos created from layers of steel and integrated right into the headache rack - effectively turning your truck into a rolling billboard that’s impossible to miss.
Our headache racks are not only extremely tough and rugged but easy to install. Truck racks come with a choice of Standard bed rails (mounts) that are compatible with most inside mount Tonneau covers, or Heavy-Duty bed rails which are recommended and ideal for use with or without a toolbox.
One or two people can easily install our headache rack in 30 minutes or less. Most racks utilize the front stake pockets and one hole drilled at the end of each bed rail. All that’s needed is a drill and ½” wrench/socket.
For work or play, we’ve got a rack and design to fit most tastes and budgets. Join our family of happy customers and discover for yourself, the Spyder difference.
]]>You love your truck, but after you drove your truck off the lot you may have discovered that it was missing a certain something...
]]>Typically, you’ll find flat running boards or tubular nerf style bars on the market. Spyder Industries uses a unique square tube design with individual drop steps – in single, double, or triple step configurations - depending on cab style and length desired.
In this case, your choice of side steps for lifted trucks really comes down to length and what you feel will work best for you and your truck. Here are the main things you should know about the differences.
Cab Length
Cab length steps run the length of your truck cab only, with a step below each door. Trucks with ‘Regular’ cabs will be shorter with a single step on each side of the vehicle. Longer cabs with multiple doors on each side will have an individual drop step for each door. Generally, cab length side steps are less expensive than their wheel-to-wheel counterparts making them a great choice if you're not concerned about reaching into your truck bed from the side all that often.
Another option, if you’re looking for the best side steps for lifted trucks, is wheel-to-wheel. We call them a triple step. This option extends beyond the cab all the way to the rear wheel opening. This will give you an extra step to more easily access the front area of your truck bed, which can be very convenient for those with a toolbox or are often loading and unloading from the side. Wheel-to-wheel steps are worth the extra money for people who need easy and efficient access to the truck bed such as contractors or landscapers. If you want to invest in the strongest, most rigid steps for lifted trucks, then S/I Steps by Spyder Industries are the steps for you.
]]>When you order add-on accessory lighting for our headache racks...
]]>When you order add-on accessory lighting for our headache racks, most of the time (with the exception of long LED light bars) the units will be pre-installed in the rack - but not pre-wired. Why don't we fully wire it for you or supply wire and switches? There are a couple of reasons. One is an effort to keep costs down. The other is we don't know where you might want to wire it into your truck or the method you might want to use. Do you want it to come out on the right side or left? Will it need to go into the cab and be switched or tie into the vehicles' rear harness? Do you want to control your lights through an existing switch or add one somewhere? There are many ways to do it and the needs will vary from customer to customer.
If you're not comfortable doing the wiring yourself then we suggest talking with your favorite mechanic or even the service department at a local RV/Trailer dealer. If you're a DIY kind of person, we can offer some tips...
Whether the lighting unit is pre-installed or shipped separately it will include a pigtail connector. You'll need to supply the wire and switches from that point forward and will find what you need at most any auto parts store.
If you ordered lights the rack will be pre-drilled near each light mount and at each lower corner so that wire can be chased through the tubing for a 'clean' install. If you ordered no lights, there will be no holes. It may be easier to chase the wiring before the headache rack is installed using a fish tape or a rigid piece of wire with a loop on the end. The idea is to push the rigid wire through the tubing, tie your electrical wires to the end and then pull that wire back out with everything attached. It may take a little patience and fiddling, but you'll get it.
It's also important to remember that unlike an incandescent style light bulb, LED units are polarity sensitive - meaning if you hook them up backwards, you won't damage them, but they won't light up. All the black wires from pigtails need to be connected to a good chassis ground. The red wires need 12 volts from a power source. It's always advised to use a properly rated fuse in the wire supplying power to the lights to protect the wiring and truck in the event of a short circuit. If you're installing multiple or large lighting units that draw more current, you should also consider wiring a relay into the circuit. The relay lets you use a very small amount of current at a toggle switch on your dash or elsewhere to safely switch a larger amount of current, on or off, through the relay.
If you ordered our Brake/Turn LED option the wiring is a little different. You'll want to tap into the vehicles' rear lighting harness. Currently, the oval shaped brake/turn LED lights have 3 wires wires: Red, Black, and White. Black needs to be connected to a good chassis ground. The red wire is for the brake/turn function. White is for running lights. (The standard is black for running and white for ground but some manufacturers may swap colors. Check for markings on the back of the housing). Oh, and when you install the lights into the rack it's easier to install the black rubber gasket first. Once secure in the opening, you can push the lamp into the gasket.
NOTE TO LATE MODEL FORD OWNERS: If you have a factory towing package that senses when a trailer is connected and turns on a dash light, you won't be able to do any kind of inline tap into that circuit or harness normally used for the trailer lighting - which is commonly done. If you do, the trucks computer will sense the small electrical load and assume you have a trailer hooked up. The workaround will be to tap into the harness feeding the brake lights. Our understanding is the computer doesn't monitor that circuit/harness and the warning lamp will not be turned on.
A quick search online will turn up lots of simple diagrams for wiring auxiliary or off-road lighting. Here's one example from lightbarreport.com where you'll also find some additional tips and information.
]]>Check out this time-lapse video of one of our headache racks being built...
]]>Choose the style of bed rails that are best for your truck and based off of...
]]>When you purchase a Spyder Industries headache rack you'll also need a matching installation kit designed specifically for your truck. One option is our Standard bed rails (compatible with most inside mount Tonneau Covers) and the other contains a set of our Heavy Duty bed rails (compatible with tool boxes). For the most part, choosing the style is straightforward and will depend on how your truck is currently equipped or how you plan to accessorize it down the road. But there are a couple of caveats to be aware of.
Our 'Standard' bed rail installation kit will work with most Tonneau Covers that mount inside (or essentially flush) with the bed of your truck. If the edge of the cover overlaps the top edge of the bed rail 1/2 inch or less you'll be fine. Examples of this type of cover are the Bak Industries BakFlip and Roll X or Truxedo Lo Pro. There are instances of inside mount tonneau covers that overlap the bed rail a little more. ReTrax is one example. If you have one of these or plan to get one, know that some modification will be required to work with our racks. Usually, the extra wide aluminum lip can be trimmed enough to provide clearance around the stake pocket area where the rack is secured - without losing the sealing ability of the cover.
Surface mount tonneau covers are generally not compatible but in some cases can be adapted or modified to work with the help of an upholstery professional. Unfortunately we don't offer any type of special bracketry or tonneau cover adapter to work with these. We recommend direct mounting to your truck bed as instructed for the most rigid and secure installation possible.
And finally, If you own a 2005 or later Toyota Tacoma, guess what? You're special! Your vehicle requires unique mounts that we make and are only compatible with tool boxes. Rails compatible with tonneau covers are not available.
The difference between the rails in the Standard installation kit and Heavy Duty is length and shape. The Heavy Duty (tool box compatible) bed rails have a lip that extends down the inside edge of your truck bed. This makes it incompatible with tonneau covers. They're also much longer (24" overall vs 11" overall) to provide a continuously flat surface for the tool box to rest on. Before ordering a tool box for use with our headache racks be sure to measure between the bed rail gussets on each side and subtract 1" to determine the maximum width box you can install.
And finally, if you plan to add a lot of accessories to your headache rack you might consider choosing the 'Heavy Duty' installation kit. While the bed rails in either kit will provide a very rigid and secure installation, the longer Heavy Duty rails will spread the extra load across the sheet metal of your truck bed that much better - even if you don't plan on using a tool box.
BONUS FEATURE: All of our bed rails include an integrated hole near the original stake pocket designed to serve as a tie down point.
If you have any questions about either of these bed rails or compatibility with your truck and existing accessories, don't hesitate to call or email.
What about the customer who needs to be able to change the functionality of the rack after purchase?
]]>We launched back in 2009 with our signature series of headache racks. The flagship design was the iconic spider web pattern. We quickly expanded to include other insert styles such as louvers, grates, and even wildlife art – all within our unique inner/outer frame construction. Since all of our racks are hand-built and made to order, optional add-ons like angle horns/lumber stops, tie-downs, and special lighting are fully integrated into the rack when it’s fabricated.
But what about the customer who needs to be able to change the functionality of the rack after purchase? That’s where the WerX series headache rack was born - a rugged headache rack ideally suited for commercial, fire, emergency, and municipal customers that could be adapted and modified at any time.
We started with a simpler base rack design with special bracketry and ties-downs built right in – all at a price point below any of our other headache racks. Then we created optional add-ons like strobe light mounts, LED lighting, antenna/PA speaker mounts, and lumber stops that can be bolted-on allowing the customer to easily reconfigure the rack on any given vehicle. The WerX Rack is one of the most versatile headache racks available on the market. It’s the ‘Transformer’ of headache racks.
]]>While a headache rack can enhance the look of any pickup truck, their most important purpose is...
]]>While a headache rack can enhance the rugged good looks of any pickup truck, their most important purpose is to protect the cab and rear window from damage. Without one, all it takes is one accidental load shift and your day is ruined. You’re left with expensive down time while the truck is repaired or, if left alone, the value of the vehicle takes a hit. More importantly, it’s a safety risk. Without a headache rack there's little to prevent some part of that load from crashing through and seriously injuring you or a passenger.
Headache racks also allow you to haul longer items in your truck bed. By adding our half or three quarter-height rear hoop your headache rack can then haul items up to 20 feet in length.
A louvered headache rack or other designs help keep direct sunlight from coming in through the back window, keeping your cab cooler.
All of our headache racks are built with steel rather than aluminum making them much stronger than any aluminum headache rack on the market today. Once assembled, all headache racks are media blasted, epoxy primed, and finally top-coated with a textured black powder coat finish. This process makes our headache rack finish one of the most durable on the market. Customers also say our headache racks are among the best looking available anywhere. It's not uncommon to hear their expectations were exceeded upon opening the box.
At Spyder Industries we’re dedicated to manufacturing tough, long-lasting vehicle accessories of the highest quality - the kind of quality we insist on for our own vehicles... The kind of quality you expect and demand, day in and day out. 100% complete satisfaction is our promise to you!
Whether you're a guy or gal, climbing into and out of a lifted truck can get downright tricky at times...
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