A pickup truck gives you the space you need to transport cargo, tools, recreational equipment, and anything else that can fit in the bed. You can also tow trailers, campers, and other vehicles. With RAM racks, truck enthusiasts can expand the utility of their vehicles even further. In this guide, we look at the top-ranked racks for your RAM based on customer reviews as well as analysis from industry sources such as Kayak Manual, Forbes, The Drive, and Board and Kayak Life.
What Are RAM Racks?
Dodge RAM racks attach to your truck either permanently or temporarily. The benefits of adding a cargo rack to your RAM include:
- Specialized, secure transport for kayaks, canoes, bikes, and other valuable equipment.
- Increased resale value.
- Reduced gear and vehicle rental expenses.
- Improved organization within the vehicle.
Types of RAM Racks
Common types of RAM racks include:
Side Mount
Side mount racks attach to the side of your truck so you can transport long, thin items like rolls of carpet or ladders. Most side mount truck racks can accommodate up to 500 pounds.
Over-Cab
Over-cab racks mount on the roof of your RAM cab. This permanent solution can accommodate cargo up to the length of your truck. Some over-cab racks are compatible with extensions to expand their capacity.
Over-Bed
Over-bed racks mount either to the bottom of the truck bed or the side of the cab. They add a second layer above the RAM’s bed for awkward or heavy items.
Hitch-Mount
Hitch-mount racks attach to your RAM’s tow hitch. These racks come in many forms, including general cargo baskets, bike racks, and kayak carriers.
You must also choose between a universal rack and a rack designed specifically for your truck. In the latter category, we recommend the Backrack 30107 Installation Hardware Kit for Dodge RAM 94-01. This no-drill rack fastens to the stake pockets of your truck in seconds, designed to be used with a range of accessories like antennas and lights that clamp securely to the bars. This rack is ideal for RAM drivers who want a fast, convenient storage and utility solution.
How to Choose RAM Racks
This checklist can help you find the ideal Dodge RAM truck rack for your needs.
Utility
How do you plan to use your rack? If you’re a kayaking enthusiast, for example, consider the ECOTRIC Universal J-Bar Kayak and Canoe Roof Rack, an Amazon’s Choice product with more than 1,000 five-star ratings on Amazon. The Kayak Manual blog also named it the top Dodge RAM kayak rack.
The set of two durable alloy steel racks can accommodate up to 165 pounds, sized for two kayaks or canoes up to 3 feet wide. These J-bar racks snap conveniently onto your truck’s existing crossbars, so keep in mind you’ll need to add those too if your RAM is not equipped. The kit includes rust-resistant mounting hardware for easy installation along with adjustable security straps.
Installation
Where you plan to mount your RAM rack will guide your purchase. In the hitch-mounted rack category, the Thule T2 Pro XT/XTR Hitch Bike Rack earned Forbes’ top bike rack of 2021 award and Amazon’s Choice designation thanks to hundreds of positive customer ratings.
This rack comes in versions that fit either a 2-inch or 1.25-inch hitch. It can accommodate two bikes weighing 60 pounds each, for a total capacity of 120 pounds. The XT/XTR rack offers easy installation with no tools required, a convenient design that folds up when not in use, and a secure lock and ratcheting arm to facilitate use. You can even purchase an attachment that allows you to haul up to four bikes.
Extra Features
We love the visibility our truck gets from the integrated front and side lights on the Hooke Road Ram 1500 Top Roof Rack Crossbar Cargo Basket Luggage Carrier. This roof rack fits Dodge RAM trucks made from 2009 through 2018. It features an aerodynamic design made from high-strength steel that can accommodate loads of up to 400 pounds. The manufacturer guarantees the black powder coating will resist rust, scratches, and damage for at least five years. The included spotlights and floodlights are perfect for those who take their RAM trucks on off-road adventures.
How to Replace/Install RAM Racks
Disclaimer: The guidelines in this story are general and not meant to replace instructions for your specific vehicle. Please consult your owner’s manual or repair guide before attempting repairs.
Installation will vary based on the type of truck rack you buy. This guide will help you install a basic ladder rack system in your RAM pickup:
- Measure the rack and carefully mark the places on your truck bed where you’ll need to drill holes for installation. Confirm the accuracy of your measurements and your marks before continuing.
- Drill the holes as described in the instruction manual for the rack model you’ve chosen.
- Use the provided nuts and bolts to attach each component of the rack system, including the bed rail and crossbars.
- Install the provided clamps to hold the entire rack system together.
- Lift the assembled rack into the truck bed.
- Attach it to the corresponding holes you drilled earlier with the provided hardware.
- Test the security and strength of the rack before you rely on it for a full load.
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