I have narrowed it down to a step deck but have a few questions

I have a Merett 3 door headache locker. In the 4 years I’ve had it it’s starting to develop som cracking around the mounts. I assume that the install job is partly to blame for that. The drivers side fuel tank bracket is in the way and the dealer hacked away a huge chunk of the headache rack to clear it.

That style up on legs is significantly easier to mount using u bolts.

 

How much easier would it be to have access to chain storage from the ground..?

 

Seems like a good idea to me, as long they are secured

 

Think of it this way, edge protectors are light, straps, when wet, theyre heavy, plus in the bunk, theyll dry/thaw come winter.

Looking at the chains and binders, i know youre probably going to want to save some money since you just put out a lot on load securement and the trailer, but go through joplin and you should be able to find a simple rack installed for 1000-1200$ that will solve a lot of the headache (heh, see what i did there?)

 

On a looks good level, i like it, but especially come winter, ice and snow will cake there. In the meantime you will curse every time you have to pull out your tarps, less than ideal, but cut a 2 inch strap to length and put them on the catwalk or on the front deck (on deck, place behind a 3 or 4 timber high bulkhead, come winter that keeps them from being as ice caked)

 

easier by far. Saves you from having to climb the steps to the rack depending on what type of trailer you’re pulling

I keep my half inch chains in a box I can get to from the ground.

 

I would assume step and rgn the ground would be easier , flat wouldn’t be….?