Clamp-On vs. Track Mount: How to Put a Roof Rack on an F150
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Title: Clamp-On vs. Track Mount: How to Put a Roof Rack on an F-150
You bought a 2015–2020 Ford F-150 for the bed. But then you filled the bed with tools, a cooler, and a dog crate.
Now, where do the kayaks go? Or the 12-foot ladder?
You look at the roof and realize: Wait, there are no rails. Unlike an Explorer or Expedition, the F-150 has a slick roof.
To get cargo up there, you have two choices:
-
The Clamp-On System: Grips the door jambs like a vice. No drilling, easy to remove, perfect for skis and bikes.
-
The Track Mount System: Requires drilling holes and riveting tracks into your roof ditch. Scary install, but cleaner looks and higher weight capacity.
In this guide, we break down the pros and cons of each method and explain why you definitely don't want to put a rooftop tent on a clamp-on rack.
Compare Rack Systems
Weekend Warrior or Expedition Leader?
|
Rack Style |
Install |
Weight Capacity |
Best For |
|
Clamp-On Crossbars |
Easy. Door jamb clips. |
~165 lbs. |
Kayaks/Bikes. The standard solution for 90% of owners. |
|
Platform Rack (Pioneer) |
Hard. Drill tracks (usually). |
~220 lbs+ |
Overlanding. Mounting Maxtrax, jacks, and heavy gear. |
|
Cab-Over Rack (Ladder) |
Bed Mount. |
~800 lbs. |
Contractors. Hauling lumber/ladders that overhang the cab. |
|
Inflatable (Soft Rack) |
Temp. Straps through cab. |
Light Duty. |
Surfing. Occasional use; fits in a glovebox. |
Frequently Asked Questions (Roof Racks)
Will a clamp-on rack damage my paint?
Not if installed correctly. High-quality systems (Rhino-Rack/Thule/Yakima) use rubberized pads for the feet and rubber-dipped steel clips for the door jambs. As long as you wash the roof thoroughly before installing to remove grit, the paint will remain safe. We recommend removing the rack when not in use for long periods to prevent dirt buildup.
Can I put a rooftop tent on the cab?
We advise caution.
- Clamp-On Racks: generally NO. The door jamb clips are not designed for the static weight of a tent + 2 people (400+ lbs).
- Drill-In Track Racks: YES. If you install permanent tracks (riveted to the roof structure), the weight load is distributed properly to support a tent.
- Alternative: Put the tent on a Bed Rack over the truck bed.
Does it create wind noise?
Yes. Any square bar will whistle. To minimize this, look for Aero Bars (tear-drop shaped) or systems that include a Wind Fairing (a plastic shield that deflects air over the rack). The Rhino-Rack Vortex bars are famous for being quiet.
Expand your cargo space.
Carry kayaks, bikes, and ladders with confidence. Shop our verified collection of [2015–2020 F-150 Roof Racks] from Rhino-Rack and Yakima.