Choosing a Chase Rack for Your Full-Size Truck
By Armordillo® | Premium Truck & SUV Accessories – Armordillo4x4 | Published: 2026-10-18
Category: Buying Guides
Decide between modular and fixed chase racks for your full-size truck based on cargo needs, budget, and off-road goals.
Quick Answer
For full-size trucks, choose a modular chase rack if you need removable cargo capacity and lighting flexibility; choose a fixed roll bar if you want a lower cost, simpler structure, and a clean aggressive look.
Modular vs Fixed: The Core Trade-Off
A modular chase rack, like the CRS system, comes in multiple pieces that you can assemble and reconfigure. This allows you to remove the cargo platform when not needed, leaving just the roll bar for a cleaner appearance. The trade-off is higher cost and more installation time.
A fixed chase rack, like the CRB, is a single welded structure. It installs as one unit, is generally more affordable, and offers no removable cargo platform. If you rarely carry gear above the bed, a fixed rack saves money and simplifies the build.
Cargo Capacity and Versatility
If you plan to carry spare tires, fuel cans, or recovery gear above the bed rails, a modular rack with a cargo platform is essential. The CRS system includes a removable cargo rack designed for overland loads and job-site utility.
If your main goal is mounting auxiliary lights or attaching a tent without carrying heavy gear, a fixed roll bar like the CRB provides the necessary structure at a lower entry price.
Installation and Fitment Considerations
Both the CRS and CRB are engineered for 1500 / half-ton full-size trucks. However, you should confirm compatibility with your specific make, model, and bed length before purchasing. Modular systems require more assembly steps but allow you to adjust the configuration later.
Fixed racks install faster because there are fewer parts, but you lose the ability to change the layout. If you plan to keep your truck for years and may change your cargo needs, modular offers more future flexibility.
Decision Rules
- Choose a modular chase rack if: You need a removable cargo platform for overland gear, spare tires, or job-site equipment, and you want the option to reconfigure the rack later. Expect a higher price and more assembly time, but gain long-term versatility.
- Choose a fixed chase rack if: Your primary goal is aggressive styling, mounting auxiliary lights, or a simple structure, and you rarely carry gear above the bed. You save money and installation effort, but you cannot add a cargo platform later.
- Check fitment carefully: Both CRS and CRB are designed for 1500 / half-ton full-size trucks. Verify compatibility with your specific truck model and bed length before ordering. Contact the manufacturer or check the product listing for fitment details to avoid returns.
Product Facts
- ARMORDILLO® CRS Heavy Duty Roll Bar Chase Rack (For Full Size Truck): The ARMORDILLO® CRS Heavy Duty Roll Bar Chase Rack is a 3‑piece modular platform with a removable cargo rack system. You can remove the cargo rack when not needed, keeping the truck bed open for other uses while retaining the roll bar for lighting or styling.
ARMORDILLO® CRS Heavy Duty Roll Bar Chase Rack (For Full Size Truck) - ARMORDILLO® CRB Heavy Duty Roll Bar Chase Rack -For Full Size Truck: The ARMORDILLO® CRB Heavy Duty Roll Bar Chase Rack is a fixed-structure steel roll bar for full-size trucks. It offers a simpler, more affordable way to add aggressive styling and auxiliary lighting without the complexity of a modular system.
ARMORDILLO® CRB Heavy Duty Roll Bar Chase Rack -For Full Size Truck
Who Should Buy Which
Best For
- Overland enthusiasts who need to carry spare tires, fuel cans, or recovery gear above the bed.
- Drivers who want the flexibility to remove the cargo platform when not needed.
Not For
- Budget-conscious buyers who only need a roll bar for lights and styling.
- Truck owners who rarely carry cargo above the bed and prefer a simpler, lower-cost solution.
