I did a search for this but didn't find much info.

I'm trying to figure out the best method to cut my bed rail caps to expose the stake holes.

I am going to be installing a rack, but not permanent, so I want to be able to cover my holes when I'm not using them (maybe with tie-downs), keep it looking neat, and avoid cutting into the box.

Any tips or suggestions?

Thanks,

Phil

 

I'd start by feeeling under the bed rail and finding the stake holes then marking each one you want to cut out by drilling a small hole in the center and pulll them off the truck to cut... Or maybe you'd be able to cut them out while on the truck also... Not to sure... I have a flareside and know the stake holes are there but already have the tie downs on the bed so haven't looked into it any further.

 

Just so you know before you start cutting...

Beds with access covers have lined steel sleeves that are about 6.5 inches deep.....



Beds without access covers have holes but, no sleeves. Anything put in the hole goes into the deep cavity between the inner and outer bedwalls....

 

Sorry, should have clarified I do have a Screw without the sleeves. The picture with the cap off is helpful, that front hole is closer to the inside than I would have figured.

I can feel the back one but my cover gets in the way of finding the front one.

I guess my main concern is I'll hack at it and it will look bad or I'll cut into the box. Thinking of using my roto-zip type saw.

 

What's the purpose of the hole in relation to a rack?

Are the rack legs designed like the fid at the bottom of this picture?

 

This is the rack: http://www.usrack.com/stake_pocket_rack.php

Looking at the install instructions, looks like it just clamps to the bottom side of the stake hole, so the sleeve isn't required. I don't want to leave it on all the time, that's why I'm concerned about doing a good job.

I know other racks mount to the bedrails, but I want to be able to use my tonneau cover at the same time, so this looks like the best option.

 

I guess you saw in their fitment guide a 'no-go' for the SuperCrew on a stake pocket rack.

This may have nothing to do with your lack of pockets.
It may be that the upper side rails comes in two lengths, 6.5' and 8.0'.
Since your truck has a 5.5' bed, I'd call them for guidance.

Best of luck.

 

No, I didn't see that, and they didn't mention that when I called them to check shipping, when I gave them my info. And mine is a style side, which they don't even list.

Hmmm. I'll have to call again I guess.

Thanks,

Phil

 

Looking at their illustration, the side rail is a two piece (Male/Female) like a curtain rod.

Fully inserted they may still exceed the distance between the front and back uprights.
You could use a hacksaw on both pieces I guess.