Headache Racks

Discussion in 'Experienced Truckers' Advice' started by notorius, Jul 31, 2014.

  1. notorius

    notorius Bobtail Member

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    Jun 30, 2012
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    I'm a former military trucker that never drove civilian but I know a little about trucking....I live in Indianapolis and see numerous flatbedders come thru here hauling coils, i-beams, etc...with NO headache rack on the tractor or trailer...Is this illegal???
     
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  3. Semi Crazy

    Semi Crazy Road Train Member

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  4. snowwy

    snowwy Road Train Member

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    There's no law that says we have to have racks.
     
  5. Battle Born

    Battle Born Heavy Load Member

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    There's no law, but I'd feel more safe with one, plus the storage. Unless you're pulling a conestoga or something. I just like any added safety I can have. Especially with steel and such.
     
  6. Allow Me.

    Allow Me. Trucker Forum STAFF Staff Member

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    A headache rack won't help much with a coil or load of steel beams that got loose.
     
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  7. Big Ole Bear

    Big Ole Bear Light Load Member

  8. snowwy

    snowwy Road Train Member

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    you guys keep posting such attachments in your posts. but how do guys like us, see the attachment???
     
    RERM and x#1 Thank this.
  9. Big Ole Bear

    Big Ole Bear Light Load Member

    [​IMG]

    happy now?
     
  10. STexan

    STexan Road Train Member

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    This picture above of the Western Express is a prime example of how a rack is supposed to work. They are not expected to completely stand up to a forward moving load/object and prevent any damage to the cab/occupants ... they are designed to blunt, deflect, and impede piercing objects, as well as large mass objects such as a coil, and to lessen the impact and damage to the cab. In the picture, without a headache rack, I suspect the coil would have continued on into the ####pit area at least. And in some minor incidents, a headache rack can be the difference between zero truck cab damage, or a completely totaled sleeper compartment.

    No you don't need one, but why would you not have one if you're a dedicated flatbedder?
     
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  11. snowwy

    snowwy Road Train Member

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    better. LOL
     
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