How to Install a Cap Rack

A cap rack is a set of two bars that are mounted to the tip of the cap on your truck. The bars are parallel to each other along the width of the cap and allow you to support cargo on the car roof. You can easily install a cap rack yourself in a short amount of time and be able to haul whatever it is you have to move.

Step 1: Start by sliding the rod end of the swivel plate into the cavity in the hinge bracket. The swivel plate is the flat place that attaches to the arms of the cap rack. The hinge bracket is the section that is attached to the actual roof of the cap. Link both plates to each of the hinge brackets. You must have four sets in total.

Step 2: Hold one of the arm brackets against the swivel plates and line up the drill hole in each. The horizontal curve of the arms should point away from the hinge bracket. Put a bolt through each of the holes and slip the washer through. Be sure to tighten the washer and bolt with a nut and wrench. Attach the remaining arms to the rest of the swivel plates and brackets.

Step 3: Set the four mounting assemblies on top of the cap. Position two on the left and two on the right edges of the cap in line with each other. The space between the front and back assemblies should have some distance. Turn the assemblies so the horizontal curves of the arms are towards the inside of the cap. Put bolts into the ends of the rack bars and set it over one set of mounting assemblies. The bolts in the bar should go into the holes in the arms.

Step 4: Adjust the swivel plate in the brackets until the arms are flat against the underside of the bar. Tighten the bolts down with washers and nuts to join the bar to the mounting assemblies. Attach the second rack bar to the remaining set of mountings. Check the position of the bars against the top to ensure they are placed properly.

Step 5: Drill in the holes in the hinge bracket and into the cap. Use a power drill to make these holes so you can attach the brackets to the cap. Insert a bolt into each hole and tighten them with washers and nuts. Inside the cap should be tightened and the rack should be secure.