Headache Rack

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by Kodaroda1, Jul 19, 2023.

  1. Kodaroda1

    Kodaroda1 Bobtail Member

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    So if you were to put a headache rack on the back of tractor and it’s 80in x 80in. Wouldn’t it cover up your light on back of tractor? And if so would that make it illegal to run? So would you have to get other light installed on? I would want to get it installed on a 2020 freightliner cascadia 126 mid roof. Thank you for any advice/knowledge.
     
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  3. tscottme

    tscottme Road Train Member

    The brake lights and turn signals on the back of the tractor are typically at the level of the truck frame, not the headache rack. The utility, or back of cab lights, which are higher up and on the back wall of the sleeper are not DOT/FMCSA requirements, just conveniences, IIRC.
     
    Bean Jr. Thanks this.
  4. Kodaroda1

    Kodaroda1 Bobtail Member

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    Thank you so much.
     
  5. AModelCat

    AModelCat Road Train Member

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    Wasn't aware lights were required at all on the back of the cab/sleeper.
     
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  6. Diesel Dave

    Diesel Dave Last Few of the OUTLAWS

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  7. blairandgretchen

    blairandgretchen Road Train Member

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    I’m thinking you’re talking about the white load lights - just mount some like @Diesel Dave posted in that case. You can just run power and have an external switch to simplify operations.

    All your other required lights are usually at the back of the tractor at end of the frame rails.
     
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  8. AModelCat

    AModelCat Road Train Member

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    Those could be mounted in the back with the tail lights though?

    Not disputing lights on the rack are handy. I just thought DOT only cared that there were white reverse lights somewhere on the truck whether they be in the back of the cab, headache rack or tailframe.
     
  9. Diesel Dave

    Diesel Dave Last Few of the OUTLAWS

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    Maybe I misread the post. Those are my working lights, I don’t have the back up light on the rear, I have a light bar. Only red LED lights on it on the bar.
     
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  10. Kodaroda1

    Kodaroda1 Bobtail Member

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    So I was just wondering if those back up lights or reflectors were covered with the headache rack if dot would care.
     
  11. tscottme

    tscottme Road Train Member

    The lights posted by @Diesel Dave in post #5 in the pic of the brown Peterbilt with a shiny new headache rack are not DOT required lights. As far as DOT or cops care, just don't drive with those lights shining white light to the rear while on a public road, and you are good. The lights aren't required to be on the flatbed trailer or tractor, just very useful for loading or unloading, etc.
     
    Diesel Dave Thanks this.
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