The best headache rack mounting kit is one that matches your truck frame dimensions and the rack’s mounting points. The options below are 20-inch U-bolt kits, but their included hardware and listed specifications differ. Buyers seeking a complete kit with rubber pads can compare the Selvouth, SeptDecFate, and unbranded options; those prioritizing specified tie-bar hardware can consider Buyers Products. Check the product details and measure your frame before choosing, because the listings do not establish universal vehicle fitment.
| Kit | Best suited for | Notable listed details |
|---|---|---|
| Selvouth Store | Buyers wanting rubber pads included | 20.47-inch U-bolts, tie plates, nuts, washers |
| Buyers Products | Truck-box and chassis mounting | 5/8-inch square-bend bolts, forged tie bars |
| SeptDecFate Store | Buyers comparing a 20-inch complete kit | Tie plates, rubber pads, nuts, washers |
| Mytee Products | Cab-rack installation | 20-inch square U-bolt kit with tie plates |
| Unbranded kit | Buyers needing stated thread length | 20-inch square bolts, 6-inch threads, rubber pads |
Selvouth Store 20.47-Inch U-Bolt Kit
This kit includes four 20.47-inch U-bolts, four tie plates, eight washers, eight nuts, and two rubber pads. The listing describes high-strength steel bolts and says the tie plates help limit movement in rear axle leaf-spring systems.
Best for: Buyers who want a listed set of rubber pads and tie plates alongside the mounting hardware. It was selected because its contents and U-bolt length are specified clearly. Check before buying: The listing advises confirming frame-length compatibility. Its rear axle suspension references do not, by themselves, confirm fit for every headache rack or truck.
Buyers Products Square-Bend U-Bolt Kit
Buyers Products lists four square-bend 5/8-inch U-bolts, eight hex nuts, eight split lock washers, and four forged steel tie bars. The tie bars are listed as 1/2 inch thick, and the hardware is described as Grade 5 equivalent. The product is presented for truck bodies and truck boxes mounted to chassis frames.
Best for: Buyers looking for detailed tie-bar and hardware specifications for a chassis-mounting job. It was selected for its stated bolt diameter and forged tie-bar construction. Check before buying: The listing focuses on truck boxes and bodies, so verify that the bolt shape, dimensions, and included parts suit your rack installation. Rubber pads are not listed among the included items.
SeptDecFate Store 20-Inch Mounting Kit
The listed kit contains four 20-inch U-bolts, four tie plates, eight washers, eight nuts, and two rubber pads. The seller describes the bolts as high-strength steel and identifies headache racks, truck frames, and other applications in the product description.
Best for: Buyers comparing a 20-inch kit with both tie plates and rubber pads included. The stated component count makes it easier to compare with other complete kits. Check before buying: The listing specifically says to confirm frame-length compatibility. Its broad application descriptions are not a substitute for checking dimensions against your truck and rack.
Mytee Products 20-Inch Square U-Bolt Kit
Mytee Products describes this as a cab-rack installation kit with 20-inch square U-bolts and tie bars or tie plates, nuts, and other mounting parts. Its feature information is brief compared with several alternatives in this list.
Best for: Buyers specifically searching for a cab-rack kit and who can confirm the full contents and measurements before ordering. It was selected because the listing directly identifies headache rack mounting and a 20-inch square U-bolt format. Check before buying: The supplied description does not provide a complete item count, bolt diameter, or rubber-pad details. Confirm those requirements if they matter for your installation.
20-Inch Square U-Bolt Kit With Rubber Pads
This kit is listed with four 20-inch square U-bolts, four tie plates, eight washers, eight nuts, and two rubber pads. The product description also specifies a 6-inch thread length and describes the bolts as heavy-duty steel.
Best for: Buyers who need a stated thread length when comparing available adjustment and clamping dimensions. It was selected for its clear square-bolt format and listed rubber pads. Check before buying: The listing advises confirming frame-length compatibility. Verify that both the U-bolt dimensions and 6-inch thread length work with the frame and rack hardware.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A Headache Rack Mounting Kit
What measurements should you check?
Measure the frame where the rack will attach, including the frame’s width and the clearance needed for a U-bolt to pass around it. Compare those measurements with the kit’s U-bolt length, shape, and thread length. A “20-inch” label alone does not confirm fit: the listings use different specifications and may not provide every dimension.
Do you need square U-bolts or tie plates?
Match the U-bolt shape to the rack brackets and frame mounting arrangement. Square-bend bolts are identified in several listings, while tie plates or tie bars provide a bearing surface as part of the mounting arrangement. Confirm the plate dimensions and hole layout where available rather than assuming components from different kits are interchangeable.
Are rubber pads and hardware included?
Compare the included-parts list against your installation needs. Several kits list nuts, washers, tie plates, and two rubber pads, while the Buyers Products listing specifies split lock washers and forged tie bars but does not list rubber pads. Do not assume an item is included unless the product details say so.
How should you confirm fitment?
Check the truck frame dimensions, rack mounting points, and required bolt clearance before ordering. If a listing omits a dimension you need, ask the seller or consult the rack manufacturer. A product description that mentions trucks, trailers, or suspension applications does not prove that a specific truck-and-rack combination will fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all 20-inch headache rack kits interchangeable?
No. Bolt shape, length, thread length, hardware, and frame dimensions can differ. Compare the kit specifications with your actual mounting points.
What is the purpose of tie plates or tie bars?
They provide support at the U-bolt mounting area. The Buyers Products listing says its forged tie bars distribute load and improve mounting stability for truck bodies or boxes.
Should I choose a kit with rubber pads?
Choose one if rubber pads are part of your installation requirements. Confirm their inclusion in the product’s listed contents; not every listing specifies them.
Can I use a suspension U-bolt kit for a headache rack?
Not without checking fitment. Some listings describe both suspension and rack applications, but the frame, rack brackets, and bolt dimensions still need to match.