DiamondBack Covers | Modifications

Sorry last question. Since this is a LLOD custom style rack. Do they included good instructions?

 

No instructions. You have to cut the tracks to length as well. But it's pretty straight forward, if you have questions just post them here or you can send me a DM.

 

Well it's been since January 9, 2019 I think since I have made an updated post on here with my diamondback. I have attached the above message of what my idea was and here is a picture of how it came out. I designed it from scratch, welded it together, and then had it powdered coated black. The bed rack can be removed just by unlocking with a key and then just lifting it up. I didn't want to drill into my bedcover in anyway. I also wanted to make my bed cover match my roof rack exactly. I have not finished everything yet. I still need to install the S2 BD Lights and then I still need to make all my accessory mounts for the toys, but I'm more than pleased with how it came out.

 

Is it possible to get more details on this?

 

What all would you like to know?

 

Id like to know all the details on how you got this hooked up to the existing bolt holes. Pretty much everything up to the rack.

 

Hey man, so how exactly did you mount the tracks to your DB? Did you lay down some silicone of some sorts and then push the tracks down into that before bolting it down? And what hardware did you use to secure it to the DB cover?

Also, do you think 2 crossbars are enough for a RTT or have you ever felt like maybe 3 would be safer?

 

The tracks come with a plastic “gasket”, sealing with silicone wouldn’t be a bad idea but not really needed. It comes with hardware but I bought some additional SS flat head bolts for added security. Two is enough for us, I think they have a 200 lb load rating each. But adding a third may be good insurance if you are heavyweights.

 

DB is making rachet straps now: https://diamondbackcovers.com/colle...jb20iLCAia2xfY29tcGFueV9pZCI6ICJKQkZWZncifQ==

 

I have 5 wheels I need to secure the DB I have on my Tacoma. What is my best option? My objective is to just transport from SF to SD. I looked in to straps but has anyone chained heavy objects down on a DB like tires?

 

I wouldn't use chains, there are plenty of ratchet strap options out there. Id definitely we've the straps through the center of tires and then create some sort of an X pattern over the top of them. Lay 4 tires flat on cover and the 5th gets stacked in the center of the 4. This obviously only works if all 4 tires fit lol

 

While i am on here, does anyone know the primary differences between the HD & SE covers? Is it just the aluminum crossbraces underneath the cover or is the actual diamondplate thicker as well? I scored an SE for a price i couldn't refuse and if its just the cross braces thats different then i wouldnt be opposed to installing a few well places ones

Thanks

 

It’s .01” thinner than the HD. I wouldn’t sweat it. I put way more that the rated 400# on my SD.

 

Looking for thoughts/opinions from those that have modified your DB covers. Mine is plain from the factory (HD model). Thinking about running 1 of 2 setups for securing gear above the cover.

Option 1:

• Extruded Aluminum going around the outside edge, center fixed panel edge and near the cab on the front panel to create a square shape. And the mirror image on the rear panel. Possibly could do just a "U" shape with the extruded aluminum on the outside edges and near the cab. Again, mirroring it on the back (tailgate) panel.
  • Can go with 1.5"W x 1.5"T, 1.5"W x 3" T, or 2"T x 2"W (haven't decided) - Pics below are in order 1.5x1.5, 1.5x3, 2x2

Option 2:

• LLOD tracks and bars from frontrunner
• Victory universal 42"x42" basket (see pic below)

Option 1 allows you to run it all the time and still access the front of the bed by lifting up the panel (once gear above is removed) and the rear panel will lift (again, without gear on top). The 1.5", 3" or 2" lip will provide something sturdy to rest your gear against and the T slots will allow you to add some tie down points for a net or straps.

Option 2 will not allow you to access the front panel or rear panel when the basket and rails are on, but you can throw stuff into the basket (cooler, fishing poles, camp chairs, tent (non RTT), grill, etc) and it be fairly secure, even more secure with a net. Would also allow for storage between the basket and the DB cover. And of course storage under the cover. Everything below the basket, including under the DB cover would have to be slid in/out.

Been running the pros and cons of both ways in my head for awhile now, but haven't decided on which way to go.

 

I'm going with the Frontrunner rails and crossbars. They get delivered tomorrow. When I get it installed I'll share here.

 

@MountainManGuy how much does that set up run?

 

Got mine today. Hopefully will install this weekend.

 

I think it was around $450 total after shipping. This is with 2 crossbars only. I'm debating on getting a 3rd one at some point which will probably be another $150

Hell yea man post up the pics when you do. Lookin forward to seein that! What hardware came with the rails? Will you need to buy additional hardware to attach them to the cover or does what comes with it work?

 

I haven’t dug into it yet but from what previous installers have mentioned I’ll need to get more screws to attach them to the DB. Not looking forward to drilling into her but I know I’ll need to LOL

 

@KTJO 4x4 @Bannerman

Few questions: Do y’all run your racks all the time? If so, do you find it difficult to access stuff in your bed? Are you using tubs or something to get full use under the cover?