Before loading ladder into rack:
1. WEATHER GUARD recommends the Model 250 sliding ladder rack be installed in service or delivery vans equipped with a bulk
head. A bulkhead divider between cargo and driver/passenger compartment reduces the likelihood material will come forward and
cause personal injury during a vehicle accident.
2. The sliding ladder rack is designed to be loaded from the back of a cargo van or pickup truck with a metal cap.
3. Before loading a ladder, make sure the elastic cords and the stop bracket are installed and positioned correctly. See
Installation steps 7 & 8 on pages 3 & 4. If a different size ladder is to be loaded then the stop bracket and the elastic cords must
be adjusted or the ladder will fall from the rack.
4. Inspect the parts of the ladder rack before using. If any part is broken, bent or damaged in any way do not use rack. See
Maintenance section for replacement parts.
• Make sure to have enough tension on the shock cord to securely hold the ladder in place. Tie a double knot into the end of the
shock cord at this point, and insert the cords in the slots in the fixed mount. Tuck the excess into the back of the fixed mount
(see figure 5).
Step 8: INSTALL FORWARD AND REAR STOPS
Recommended position of the forward stop is approximately 1” in front of the sliding mount in the stowed position. The position of
the stop should allow just enough travel to slide the ladder forward to place the bottom rung onto the adjustable catch as well as
ladder removal.
Rear stop should be placed far enough forward to limit travel of the sliding mount allowing you to pull the ladder easily off of the
front cradle assembly without hitting the fixed catch.
Step 9: RAIL LUBRICATION
Figure 6
Elastic cords can snap back and strike your eye. Do Not overstretch. Keep your body and face clear.
WARNING
Elastic cords must be properly adjusted. Failure to adjust cord tension for length of ladder may allow ladder to fall.
WARNING
Front Stop Plate must be installed to prevent the sliding catch from dislodging during hard braking or in a vehicle accident.
WARNING
USAGE INSTRUCTIONS
• Inspect the sliding ladder rack before each use. Do not use rack if it is damaged or deteriorated in any way.
• Do not place shorter ladder in rack adjusted for longer ladder. Always adjust stop plate and elastic cords for length of ladder
being loaded.
• Incorrect loading or unloading of the sliding ladder rack could allow ladder to fall and cause serious personal injury or property
damage.
• Never operate the rack with persons seated below or near the rack and ladder.
• Be careful when loading ladder into the sliding ladder rack if standing on slick or icy ground.
• Do not load or unload ladder when vehicle is moving.
WARNING
Apply a generous amount of lithium grease to the inside of the rail
allowing for smooth travel of the sliding front cradle.
Optional Installation
Step 10: SIDE MOUNTING INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
(ONLY)
Install side catch brackets to adjustable mount with two 1/4-20 x
7/8” carriage bolts, 1/4” flat washers, and 1/4-20 nylon lock nuts as
shown in Figure 6. Install rail assembly to side of enclosed trailer.
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