When I purchased the truck, my 2012 Ford Raptor came with a retractable tonneau cover. I liked the idea of being able to lock down valuables out of sight. But the retractable design used too much space, and since the bed was a short 5.5’ to start with, it left a lot of unusable space. I was looking to add an awning to the truck; we do an event each year where we sit for much of the day, and it would be nice to have the shade. I had thought about adding a bed-topper or shell, but when I need to carry items over 5.5’ long, that would also be an inconvenience. I started lookin
Related: hear SEMA VP of Events Tom Gattuso’s conversation on Conversations with Big Rich.g into bed racks and was surprised at the number of options out there. I found the FabFours Adjustable Rack System, constructed from 11-gauge US Steel, weighing 200 lbs. It’s a bit heavier than most racks, but you’ll not have to worry about damaging it while working or having an adventure. The design is well thought out, with accessory mounting holes, multiple tie-down points, pod mounts for (4) LED lights, and step locations for roof access.
FabFours also provides a link to an install video, which is helpful. While I did the installation by myself, I would suggest that you have the help of at least one other person. I added more bolts and nuts than what came with the kit. The kit has enough to install correctly, but if there is a hole, I’ll add a bolt and nut. I wanted to mount our Starlink to the rack. I looked at options online, but the FabFours rack crossbars are perfectly spaced to use the standard Starlink 4-leg mount with just four holes drilled. I also added lights, bed lights along the crossbars, amber rear-facing dust lights, red LED lights for the 3rd brake light, and a bright LED backup light. I wired the backup light with a switch that allows the light to be used with the truck in reverse and manually turns the bed lights on. The amber lights are wired to the upfitter switches in the cab. ARB awning mounts round out my enhancements up to this point; I also have MaxTrax traction boards strapped to the rack. Eventually, those will be mounted with a lockable pin set-up.
The FabFours Adjustable Rack System is sturdy and well-designed; I’d suggest it as a mounting point for a rooftop tent, as well.
