One of the best things about owning a truck is the fact that you have all that room in the bed. However, you will find that it can be a bit difficult to protect the sides of the bed from scratches, dents and dings. One of the best options is to install truck bed rails; these devices not only protect your truck from the ravages of cargo, but also can help create a dramatic sense of style for your ride.
Of course, the solution is not as simple as popping a couple of rails on your truck and hauling off down the road. You'll need to follow a few steps to get the look and protection that you need.
Rails For Beds
1. Choose Your Rails - You will first need to find truck bed rails that fit your make and model. As with most other accessories, rails that fit a Ford F-150 will usually not fit a Dodge Ram 1500 and vice versa. Therefore, you will need to buy a pair of rails that is custom made to fit your particular truck.
2. Decide on the Style - Your second step is to decide on the style of bed rails that you want. You will find quite a few different options out there. Here are just a few of the more popular solutions
Caps - Caps cover the top of the rail, and leave cutouts for the stake holes. They also cover the front edge and the lip of the tailgate in most cases. Caps are usually black plastic and are relatively simple to install. If you choose caps, make sure the plastic is UV stable.
Half-Rails - Half-rails are exactly what they sound like. They begin just behind the cab of the truck and extend halfway down the bed, anchoring in the stake holes. You will find that chromed tubular steel is the most common style.
Full Rails - Full rails provide more protection for the sides of your truck than half-rails do; these rails start just behind the cab and run all the way to the end of the bed, mounting in the stake holes. Neither half-rails nor full rails provide protection for the lip of the tailgate or the portion of the bed underneath the rear windshield.
3. Determine the Metal Type - As mentioned, most truck bed rails are made with tubular steel. However, you should ensure that yours are created with chromed (or powder coated) stainless steel to ensure the utmost in durability and quality. Choosing a set of rails made with inferior metal will result in a short-lived solution that looks bad after only a year or two out in the weather.
4. Determine the Installation Method - Several types of installation are used to mount different types of truck bed rails. You will need to find a set that is simple and easy to install. Most sets are available with "no drill" installation; however, if you choose a set that does require drilling, be prepared for a bit of effort.
5. Warranty Coverage - No matter what style of rails you purchase, you must ensure that the manufacturer offers a warranty. This will save your investment in the case of early discoloration, cracking or other damage that is not caused directly by you. You should never purchase rails from a manufacturer that does not offer a lifetime warranty.
Bed rails can give your truck excellent looks and style, but they also offer great protection from damage. You will find that the right pair will do wonders for your truck and help keep it looking great for years to come.
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Oct 21, 2011 14:52:41
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STRUCTURES by Malouf Heavy Duty 6-Leg LINENSPA Adjustable Metal Bed Frame with Double Center Support and Rug Rollers - UNIVERSAL (Cal King King Queen Full XL Full Twin XL Twin) Feature
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STRUCTURES by Malouf Heavy Duty 6-Leg LINENSPA Adjustable Metal Bed Frame with Double Center Support and Rug Rollers - UNIVERSAL (Cal King King Queen Full XL Full Twin XL Twin) Overview
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