Diamondback bed rack alternative…

I really can’t bring myself to spend the crazy amount of money on the Yakima overhaul hd. I saw this on Amazon and thought maybe one of you have this. Any thoughts - it looks identical to the overhaul, has same weight ratings and even comes with the cross bars and side support bars. It’s $500 vs ~$1500 for the same Yakima setup……

$550 TKMAUTO Black Universal Heavy Duty Truck Bed Rack - Adjustable Height, Extendable, Aluminum Cross Bars for Most Pick-Up Trucks Ram Silverado Tundra F150

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B09K3WLJ58?smid=A160FQSYXXOUXC

 

Looking on Youtube the drawback seems to be install issues like unclear instructions and screws and bolts not all being optimal for the application. But once it's on people seem happy with it for the price.

 

I have the Yakima base track for the cover - I think this would fit in the t slot with no issue (might have to trim the lip a bit same as with the overhaul). Looks identical from the pictures and reviews and videos seem pretty favorable.

 

Got it installed tonight and have to say I am pretty impressed with the rack; the powder coating is a little soft but all in all it’s very sturdy and really looks like a clone of the Yakima. Install was easy. Now to find the keys to all of my old Yakima attachments……

 

Does it come with a base that will work on the Yakima HD Track rails?

 

yes. I will take some pictures in the morning.

 

After using this for the weekend ski trip I figured I would come back and report my impressions. I have a lot of older yakima accessories and didn't want to purchase all new. Here is a list of thoughts:

1. The rack seems to be an identical yakima clone except for the ridges in the aluminum. I think the Yakima is a smooth finish.
2. I had purchased the Yakima Base Track rails through facebook marketplace. I have not seen an aftermarket alternative for this.
3. The install was very easy and straightforward. It is SOLID and STURDY - when I shake the rack the truck moves with it. No wiggling, no rattling, no movement at all.
4. One thing to keep in mind - this rack comes with the base plates, towers, cross bars and side bars (i did not install the sidebars yet as I will likely use them to mount my recovery tracks and fork mounts for bikes in the spring / summer). Yakima charges for all of these parts separately.

All in tis rack cost me $500 after a coupon on Amazon. The similarly equipped Yakima would be in excess of $1500 similarly equipped. I have the universal mighty mounts that will hold my ski racks, kayak racks and basket. The fork mounts will go on the side rails and I have an idea how to secure them. The only thing with the mighty mounts as they are only attached with a thumb wheel and can be easily removed. I have purchased security nuts to thread onto each of the bolts to deter any theft.




All in all, I couldn't be happier. I did NOT want to spend the coin on the Yakima. I firmly believe in the saying "you get what you pay for" but sometimes you can get lucky and find a comparable product that is sturdy, reliable and dependable. I think this rack fots that category. Time will tell if it is as durable and reliable as the Yakima, but I have long resented Thule and Yakima for upcharging grotesque prices on proprietary products. It was a matter of principle for me and I took a flyer on the rack which has met and exceeded my expectations so far.