DIY Ladder rack

[rpugh]

Anyone ever build a ladder rack from wood? I'm looking for a used (cheap) steel one, but might go ahead with wood. Advice about what size wood stock, it mainly just for a canoe, about 80 lb.
Thanks, I love this site.

 

[Hopman]

For 80 lbs, standard 2"x4" stock should work perfectly. I work with a community theater group and we use 2x4 frames for platforms that have people not only walking, but dancing and jumping around on them. We've never had a failure yet, even after many shows of abuse!

Seeing as it will be exposed to the elements, get pressure treated as well.

Just make sure you use good bolts (9/16" size, Grade 5, but G5 might be overkill). You should also add some eye bolts (say 4 per side, with shanks that go at least 1.5" -2" into the 2x4) so you have plenty of mounting points for tie-downs. More thank likely, you'll end up using the rack for more than just your canoe.

 

[Flash43223]

Diy ladder rack plans?

I know this is a long shot since this post is so old but I am wondering whether you actually built the wodden ladder rack? If so do.ypu happen to have the plans to build it with I have the same exact truck model same here and everything and I'm wanting to do the same thing about putting the wooden ladder rack on because I can't afford to go buy a new one and I haven't been able to find a used one that will fit my truck but I need a ladder rack so any direction or advice you can give me would be greatly appreciated thanks

Anyone ever build a ladder rack from wood? I'm looking for a used (cheap) steel one, but might go ahead with wood. Advice about what size wood stock, it mainly just for a canoe, about 80 lb.
Thanks, I love this site.

 

[hank857]

just go to harbor freight and get theirs. Fairly cheap and would be ok for canoe. Guy at work has one for his and he travels from az to mn every yea with it.
To build one use some galvanized pipe and threaded couplings that way you can get it screwed to either bed rails or in the bed itself.

https://www.harborfreight.com/250-lb-truck-ladder-rack-66187.html

 

[91stranger]

You can easily build one out of 2x4's and a few hours of work, if that. I've seen a lot of trucks around here with wooden racks and they are the most simplest designs you can think of. The bed on most rangers has square post holes. Start there then tie the 4 posts into a square with part of it coming over the cab (if you want it like that). A nice extra touch is taking a torch and burning the wood grain then I would stain it to help with the weather. Like he said above you will use it for more than just a canoe. I have a nice stainless steel ladder rack and I love it. I can haul things with ease. here is an image of what mine is like. mine is steel though but you get the idea.