Does the Malone Trade Sport Truck Rack Tonneau Cover Adapter require Drilling?

Updated 04/03/2026 | Published 03/30/2026

Products Featured in This Question

Malone Trade Sport Truck Rack - Tonneau Cover Adapter

(4)

$125.95

Malone TradeSport Truck Bed Ladder Rack w/ Load Stops - Aluminum - 800 lbs

(8)

$733.64

Question:

How does the ladder rack attach to these brackets ? I see holes in the brackets but not in the ladder rack.

asked by: John F

Expert Reply:

Great question John, and I can see why that would be confusing at first glance.

Most of the Malone TradeSport Truck Bed Ladder Racks like part # MAL55VR do not come pre-drilled at the base. To attach it to the tonneau adapter brackets, you will need to line up the mounting plate on the bracket with the base of the rack upright, mark the hole locations, and then drill into the rack base. The instructions call for drilling those holes so everything bolts together securely, so there is some drilling required as part of the installation.

I know drilling into a new rack can feel a little uneasy, but this is how Malone designed it so the fit can be customized and tightened down properly to the brackets. As long as the holes are measured and drilled correctly, it will mount up solid and hold your load without issue. If your particular rack already has pre-drilled holes that line up, you can skip that step, but most installs will require drilling.

What are you planning to haul with it most, ladders, kayaks, or lumber?

expert reply by: Heather A