What accessory is the staple of a real work truck? While most people's minds might drift toward items that are more off-road related, it's hard to deny the headache rack – also known as a cab rack or cab guard – earns the title.
Despite their off-putting name, headache racks offer significant benefits for trucks. They help protect the cab while also expanding your truck's functionality, allowing for the integration of additional accessories to enhance its effectiveness in whatever it is you’re trying to get done.
If you think your truck could benefit from a headache rack, but you’re not sure where to start, let Parts Via be your guide. We'll walk you through their basic functions, from cab guards to accessory mounts, and help you decide which style is the best fit for your truck.
Why is it called a headache rack?
First, let's talk about the name. Calling something a "headache" tends to draw negative connotations. You might be under the impression that these racks are a headache to install, or offer nothing but headaches to the driver, but the opposite is true.
Cab guards earn the name "headache rack" on account of saving you from headaches.
The mounting location at the bulkhead, just behind the rear cab window, is an incredibly vulnerable part of a truck. These racks function as a barrier to protect passengers. During hard braking scenarios or a traffic incident, these racks help prevent cargo from crashing through the window and striking the passengers in the head – thus creating a massive headache. Additionally, some models can also offer a slight amount of rollover protection.
Other Functions of a Headache Rack
While added protection is always a great thing, it doesn't have to be the sole function of a product. Manufacturers like BackRack, Dee Zee, and Weather Guard were quick to realize that headache racks could be more than cab guards, innovating various designs that leverage the rack’s structure and mounting location for added functionality.
Some styles are stripped down to function primarily as cargo rests, with minimal protection for the rear window. Others have wide outer bars designed for lighting mounts, while some have work, brake, and emergency lights built right into them. They can even come with mesh or louvered inserts that offer additional shade and protection to the cabin, allowing them to function as a means to boost security and reduce interior temperatures.
Which style headache rack is right for me?
Having options is great, but it can make choosing a little daunting. Let’s break down the key factors to consider, so you can make an informed decision based on your – and your truck’s – specific needs. Whether you prioritize cargo capacity, lighting options, or cabin protection, we've got you covered.
Protection Level.
If you want maximum protection, a sturdy outer bar with mesh or louvered inserts is your best choice. These designs prioritize full coverage of the rear cab window and can better shield it from potential impacts. Additionally, you may want to consider models with integrated rear-facing lights for enhanced visibility and safety on the road, as well as tie-down points to better secure cargo and equipment.
Cargo Support.
All headache racks can function as a cargo rest, but how well they do their job largely depends on what you’re hauling. For truck owners transporting long or awkward cargo such as planks of wood, piping, and ladders, look for a headache rack with an open design. This makes it easy to rest long items between the uprights and then secure them by wrapping a bungee cord or ratchet strap around the flat bar.
If you’re transporting bulky items like landscaping tools, consider adding a clamp-on tool holder. These accessories free up bed space and provide safe and secure upright mounting on the headache rack itself.
Lighting & Accessory Solutions.
As mentioned earlier, some headache racks have work, brake, and emergency lights built right into them, while others offer pre-drilled mounting locations or clamp-on brackets for easy accessory add-ons. Consider what makes the most sense for your work truck needs and read product descriptions thoroughly to determine whether these features apply to you.
Bed Accessories Compatibility.
Speaking of accessories, if you intend to use a crossover toolbox, tonneau cover or other mounted truck accessory near the bulkhead, make sure your desired headache rack will play nicely with it. Not all designs are accommodating, and this is worth reading into as you plan out your build.
Shade & Visibility Concerns.
Louvered headache racks offer an excellent barrier against unwanted light (and eyes) at the rear of the truck. This can boost security, as well as reduce heat in the car by blocking out sunlight.
Don’t Forget Build Quality
The primary material used to construct a headache rack is also something to consider. It can play directly into the appearance, weight, and function of a rack just as much as anything else. Thankfully, the two most common materials used to build them are steel and aluminum.
Aluminum has the benefit of being lightweight, incredibly strong, and resistant to corrosion. It is, however, more costly than steel, and most aluminum racks come in a bare finish, which not everyone will find appealing. There are some aluminum racks that are available in other finishes, however.
Steel, on the other hand, is a sturdy, cost-effective material that makes building substantial components a little easier on the wallet. It's often powder-coated black, which goes well with any truck. The biggest problem it struggles with is corrosion, though, which makes it less than ideal for trucks in the rust belt.