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

Question

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

0

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

0

drilling
(click to enlarge)

Answer 1

Hey Jay, with the Tonneau Cover Adapter part #MAL88HR yes you can use the Malone TradeSport Truck Bed Ladder Rack #MAL55VR with your tonneau cover. It would allow it to attach in a way that would not interfere with the install/function of your…

view full answer...

Answer 2

The difference between the Class II and Class III hitches has to do with their Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), their Tongue Weight (TW), and their Hitch Receiver Size. Class II trailer hitch receivers have a 1-1/4 inch receiver and can be rated up to…

view full answer...

Answer 3

In order to determine the torque rating for the lug nuts on your trailer you will need to know check out the chart I attached that shows all of the torque specs for all the trailer lugs available based on stud size, wheel material and wheel size.

view full answer...

Answer 4

Hey Andrew! Yes, Furrion does have a Chill Cube model with a heat pump. This was actually just released for aftermarket sale. You will need a complete system to make the switch, new R32 units aren't backwards compatible with old R410A systems.…

view full answer...

Answer 5

A 4-Way trailer connector has the basic lighting functions only; running lights, left turn signal and brake lights, right turn signal and brake lights, and ground. A 7-Way has these functions and a 12 volt circuit, a circuit for electric trailer…

view full answer...

Answer 6

According to Blue Ox, it'll take an experienced installer about 4 to 5 hours to complete the installation of their #BX1128 Base Plate Kit on a 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The install isn't what I'd call super-difficult, but the installation…

view full answer...

Answer 7

Hi Paul, you’re definitely on the right track here, and I can help you narrow this down with confidence. With your tandem 3,500 lb Dexter axles and 33 inch spacing, both the Dexter EZ Flex part #K71-652-00 and the Lippert Road Armor part #LC53CK are…

view full answer...

Answer 8

The OEM prep package consists of 4 "pucks" in the bed of the truck that will allow you to drop in puck style hitches for easy installation and removal, that gives you a completely clear bed when not in use. The B&W Companion OEM 5th…

view full answer...

Answer 9

Hey Melanie. The reason you can't find a replacement for your GE ARC15AACBL2 15,000 btu air conditioner is because they phased them out. In 2025 all RV AC systems had to change over to a new coolant called R32. This was a EPA mandated decision.…

view full answer...

Answer 10

It sounds like you are speaking of the wires for the brake magnets. If this is correct, you will need to connect one of the wires to the brake controller output wire on your trailer connector and the other wire will need to be grounded to a clean…

view full answer...

Answer 11

Even though I cannot comment specifically on the grease you used because I am not familiar with it, I can tell you the best grease for trailer bearings is a a grease with a rating of GC-LB, which just means it is made to withstand very high…

view full answer...

Answer 12

Yes, it will work. You'll just need to cut the Lance 6-pin connector out and rewire it into the etrailer Trailer Wiring 7-Way Upgrade Kit w/ Junction Box and RV Style Connector item #e99011. Here are the individual functions of that Lance 6-pin:…

view full answer...

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

Products Featured in This Question

Product Page this Question was Asked From

Featured Help Information

Instructions

Continue Researching