I looked at Adrian Steel but theyre way too pricey and I heard Weather Guard is a total nightmare to install yourself. Im starting a mobile tool repair biz in Seattle next month on a $2k budget.
What brands actually hold up?
Building on the earlier suggestion, I was pretty let down by some of the cheaper kits I tried before finally settling on my current setup. Honestly, most entry-level steel racks are disappointing because they rattle like crazy the second you hit a pothole in Seattle.
> I looked at Adrian Steel but theyre way too pricey ^ This. Also, if you're trying to stay under $2k for a 159 wheelbase, check out Masterack Steel Shelving Van Package. I've been using their gear for five years and I'm super satisfied with how it handles heavy tool loads without rattling. Its way easier to bolt in than Weather Guard since they mostly use existing mounting points. Another one I liked was American Van Heavy Duty 3-Shelf Unit.
I stayed satisfied with some unbranded steel racks for my 159. Honestly, just be careful drilling near those side pillars tho, because hitting a hidden wire harness is a mistake you only make once.
@Reply #3 - good point! Honestly, the rattling in those steel kits is enough to drive you crazy after a week of driving around Seattle. I've had issues with several setups that just didn't hold up to daily vibrations, and unfortunately, some of the mid-range hardware isn't as good as expected once you actually put weight on it. It just feels flimsy after a few months of use. So far, the thread's basically saying Adrian Steel is too much for your budget, while Masterack and Kargo Master are your best bets for that $2k range. But big warning tho... don't just focus on the side pillars. The ProMaster floor is surprisingly thin in spots and I've seen guys drill straight into the fuel tank or lines because they were rushing the bolt-in. It's a massive safety concern that'll cost way more than the shelving did. Just take it slow and maybe use some rubber washers to dampen that noise everyone mentioned. If you get stuck on the mounting points, just shout, I've spent way too many hours inside these vans...