Can I Cut Off the Excess Bolt Length on the etrailer Over-The-Cab Truck Ladder Rack?
Updated 09/26/2025 | Published 04/23/2025
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Question:
There appears to be a significant amount of the bolts extending above the bed rail where the j-hooks attach the rack. Do you have a recommendation for how to best handle that? I was thinking of simply cutting the bolts off flush with the nuts and then finding some sort of a rubber cover. Would that present a problem?
asked by: Tom
Expert Reply:
Sounds like you solved the problem Tom! That's exactly what I would do with the bolts on the etrailer Over-The-Cab Truck Ladder Rack item # e78FV. They stick out quite a ways and once you get them torqued down there's no need to have all that excess.
I recommend throwing some Loctite like the Blue Stick Threadlocker item # LT37614 on those bolts before you cut them off.
If you have any additional questions feel free to add them to the comment box below and I'll be happy to help you.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
etrailer Over-The-Cab Truck Ladder Rack - Steel - 1,000 lbs
- Ladder Racks
- Truck Bed
- Fixed Rack
- Crossbar Rack
- Not Tonneau Compatible
- Over-Cab Height
- 1000 lbs
- Over the Cab
- No Drilling Required
- etrailer
more information >
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on Ladder Racks
Jerred H.
9/26/2025
Hey Tom, did cutting the bolts and using the Loctite work out for you? I'd love to hear how it went, as it could give others confidence when handling similar situations.