When mounting headache racks, U-bolt kits are the preferred choice. Other kits suit tighter situations, such as when a cab has an obstacle, accessories already mounted on the frame, or another unique scenario where a U-bolt kit isn't practical. Sturdy-Lite and Iconic MetalGear each offer three mounting options. Match your rack and mounting kit brand to ensure your warranty remains valid.
Here's how each kit works, when to pick it, and what to check before you order.
Mounting Kits at a Glance
|
Kit |
Brand |
Best for |
Drilling |
|
Sturdy-Lite |
Most installs |
No |
|
|
Sturdy-Lite |
An obstacle around the cab's frame |
No |
|
|
Sturdy-Lite |
Accessories already mounted on the frame |
Yes |
|
|
Iconic |
Most installs, when frame spacing allows |
No |
|
|
Iconic |
Frame spacing that calls for a shorter U-bolt |
No |
|
|
Iconic |
When a U-bolt kit isn't feasible |
Yes |
Match the Kit to Your Rack Brand
Use a Sturdy-Lite kit with a Sturdy-Lite rack and an Iconic kit with an Iconic rack. Mixing brands isn't recommended, and it could void your warranty.
Sturdy-Lite Mounting Kits
Sturdy-Lite racks and kits are made in Bristol, Tennessee. USCC offers Sturdy-Lite mounting kits individually or as bundles with headache racks.
U-bolt kit (UK-19). This is the standard kit and the best choice for most installs. Our team recommends this kit most often, and it does not require drilling. Choose this option for Sturdy-Lite racks unless you have a unique cab situation.
Straight frame kit (MK-19). Use this kit when an obstacle around the cab's frame makes a U-bolt kit unsuitable. For example, air tanks, a DEF tank, or a frame crossmember may obstruct a U-bolt mount. Choose this option if you have any of those. It also does not require drilling.
Side mounting kit (SK-4). This kit is for more unusual setups. It mounts to the side of the main frame and the side of the rack foot, and it clears accessories that are already mounted on the truck's main frame. It is often used in unusual situations where a U-bolt and a straight frame kit aren’t suitable. This kit does require drilling.
Iconic MetalGear Mounting Kits
Iconic MetalGear racks are made in Canada. Most Iconic racks don't come with a mounting kit, so check the product page to see whether one is included before you order. If it isn't, add the kit you need separately.
21" U-bolt kit (UK-21). This is Iconic's first choice when your frame spacing allows it. It's a no-drill install, and the U-bolts wrap around the frame rail.
17" U-bolt kit (UK-17). Same idea as the 21" kit, with a shorter U-bolt for frames where the spacing calls for it. Also does not require drilling.
Quick-mount kit (QMK). The quick-mount kit bolts through the rack’s feet and into the truck frame’s side. It requires drilling and is only recommended when a U-bolt kit isn't feasible.
How to Choose a Headache Rack Mounting Kit
Start with the U-bolt kit. If it works for your truck, it's the simplest path.
For Sturdy-Lite racks, ask yourself:
- Is there an obstacle around the cab's frame? Consider the straight frame kit first.
- Are other accessories already mounted on the frame that would obscure the straight frame kit? Consider the side mounting kit.
- Can't drill your frame? The U-bolt kits and side mount kits are no-drill options.
For Iconic MetalGear racks:
- Match your frame rail spacing to the right U-bolt kit, 21" or 17". Check the spec sheets on the product pages. If neither U-bolt kit is an option, choose the quick-mount kit.
- Can't drill your frame? The Iconic U-bolt kits are the no-drill option.
Check Before You Buy
- Check your rack's product page. See which kit options are listed and whether a kit is included.
- Look at what's around your truck cab frame. Note any air tanks, DEF tanks, or crossmembers near the cab that could obscure the U-bolt mount.
- Match your frame rail spacing and check the spec sheets if you have an Iconic MetalGear rack.
- Match the brand. Always use Sturdy-Lite with Sturdy-Lite and Iconic with Iconic.
For safety reasons, never reuse a mounting kit. Use a new kit every time you mount a rack.
Not sure which one fits your setup? Call us at 866-444-9990, and our product experts can help you confirm before you order.
Mounting Kit FAQs
Which headache rack mounting kit is best?
The U-bolt kits are the preferred options overall. Choose a different kit only if something on your truck makes a U-bolt kit unsuitable.
Does a headache rack come with a mounting kit?
It depends on the brand. All Sturdy-Lite kit types are an optional add-on on the rack's product page. Most Iconic racks don't include a kit, so check the product page and add a kit separately if it isn't included.
What does "straight frame" mean?
A straight frame kit is for trucks with an obstacle around the cab's frame that keeps a U-bolt kit from fitting.
Do I have to drill into my frame?
No. Sturdy-Lite U-bolt and straight frame kits, as well as Iconic’s 17” and 21” U-bolt kits are drill-free installs. If your setup requires the Sturdy-Lite side mounting kit or the Iconic quick mount kit, you will have to drill.
Can I use a Sturdy-Lite kit on an Iconic rack?
We don't recommend mixing brands. It could void your warranty. Use the kit made for your rack's brand.
What's the difference between the Iconic 17" and 21" U-bolt kits?
The U-bolt length is the difference. Match the kit to your frame rail spacing and check the spec sheets on the product pages.
Can I reuse a mounting kit?
No. Never reuse a mounting kit.
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Need Help Choosing a Mounting Kit?
Our product experts can match a kit to your rack and your truck. Call us at 866-444-9990 or browse all Semi Headache Rack Accessories.
