AA-Racks Model X31-J Truck Ladder Rack

Curated from 66 real Reddit conversations

Refreshed on: March 18, 2025

AA-Racks Model X31-J Truck Ladder Rack

Brand: AA-Racks
Price: $114
Snoop Score:
5.8
Sentiment
5.0
Popularity
3.3
Technical
7.2

Snoop's Take

The AA-Racks Model X31-J Truck Ladder Rack is designed to securely transport ladders and other long loads on pickup trucks without the need for drilling. With an impressive loading capacity of 800 lbs and a user-friendly non-drilling installation using Z-clamps, this ladder rack is ideal for truck owners looking for convenience and reliability. Consumer sentiment regarding the AA-Racks X31-J is mixed. Many users appreciate the ease of installation, stating, “I have it on mine. No drilling/cutting required.” However, there are notable concerns about durability, with some reports of rusting issues after just a year, with one user lamenting, “Rusted out in a year. POS.” Additionally, users have pointed out that the advertised height may not always be accurate, leading to some disappointment. Overall, while the AA-Racks Model X31-J Truck Ladder Rack offers a practical solution for transporting equipment, potential buyers should be aware of the rusting issues and inaccuracies regarding height. Given these mixed reviews, it may be worth considering alternative options if longevity and fit are priorities.

Not for you? Check out our other rated Ladder Racks

Just added a ladder/kayak rack!

Positive Feedback

The only issue now is what do I do with a rack that outlives the trucks and doesn't fit the new trucks?

Negative Feedback
Product
5.8
AA-Racks Model X31-J Truck Ladder Rack
Transporting Ladders
8 / 10
Hauling Lumber & Oversized Cargo
6 / 10
Outdoor and Recreational Gear
6 / 10
Maximizing Truck Bed Space
6 / 10
See how this compares to all Ladder Racks

What it does well!

Key strengths users can’t stop talking about.
Non-drilling installation with Z-clamps
Just added a ladder/kayak rack!
If I had know I could order it with the kayak holders I would have.
No drilling required for installation
just want to be sure it will attaches to the bed without any cutting/drilling.
I have it on mine. No drilling/cutting required.

Where it needs some work!

Areas to watch—feedback on possible improvements.
Rusting issues reported
The only issue now is what do I do with a rack that outlives the trucks and doesn't fit the new trucks?
Rusted out in a year. POS.
Any insight is helpful, thanks!
Advertised height is inaccurate
It's just a bummer they don't sit below the cab.

Compare On All Talked About Dimensions

Product NameImagePriceScoreCompareSee DetailsBuy Now
Auto Dynasty 1000 LBS Adjustable Pickup Truck Ladder RackAuto Dynasty 1000 LBS Adjustable Pickup Truck Ladder Rack$258
9.2
DetailsBuy
LITBM Non-Drilling Truck RackLITBM Non-Drilling Truck Rack$99
9.1
DetailsBuy
MAXXHAUL 70233 Heavy Duty Ladder RackMAXXHAUL 70233 Heavy Duty Ladder Rack$108
7.1
DetailsBuy
VMBQRTI Truck Ladder Rack - Adjustable Aluminum Ladder RackVMBQRTI Truck Ladder Rack - Adjustable Aluminum Ladder Rack$205
6.6
DetailsBuy
AA-Racks Model X31-J Truck Ladder RackAA-Racks Model X31-J Truck Ladder Rack$114
5.8
DetailsBuy
BZOGHMUB 4X4 Car Roof RackBZOGHMUB 4X4 Car Roof Rack$3018
5.7
DetailsBuy
JY PERFORMANCE Truck Ladder RacksJY PERFORMANCE Truck Ladder Racks$104
4.3
DetailsBuy
CKTZPYJMN Overland Truck Bed Rack Cargo Truck Ladder RackCKTZPYJMN Overland Truck Bed Rack Cargo Truck Ladder Rack$1978
4.1
DetailsBuy
YQECVHGYT 4x4 Sport Roll Bar Universal Adjustable Carrier CageYQECVHGYT 4x4 Sport Roll Bar Universal Adjustable Carrier Cage$1661
3.3
DetailsBuy
IAWRZVLQP 4x4 Sport Roll Bar Universal Adjustable Ladder RackIAWRZVLQP 4x4 Sport Roll Bar Universal Adjustable Ladder Rack$1660
0.7
DetailsBuy

Core Power Plays

The specs and strengths that make it shine.
Discussion of ladder weight and usability
Only downside of the Little Giant ladders is they are heavy.
I have a bigass multi-ladder with like 22' reach, it lets me do just about anything you could possibly want but it's cumbersome.
Wish I picked it up while I was there, but specs show 32lbs, which isn’t too bad.
Most ladders that are 12+ ft are pretty heavy and are not as versatile.
Discussion on lightweight materials for racks
Sounds nice and light weight too.
Alternatively, why not get some ladder racks that every contractor has?

Hidden Hero Hacks

Unexpected tricks and side‑door uses you’ll love.
Discussion of custom rack builds
Hijet 1991 ladder rack build First time posting on here. When I started building this rack a week ag
Nice dual purpose rack👍
Thanks! When I built it I wanted to preserve all the stock parts so I can always put that back on. E
Nice truck! Any other details on your build?
Discussion about using the rack for kayaks
I don’t have my Maverick yet but would consider that rack for kayaks.
When running shuttle, I'll be able to load 5 or 6 boats between the bed and the ladder rack.
Discussion of kayak trailers versus bed racks
The money spent on a bed rack might be better spent on a kayak trailer.

Buyer’s Cheat Sheet

What to check before you click ‘Add to Cart.’
Discussion of carrying large items on trucks
Can a Kei truck carry a 40ft ladder?.... YES.
Lol, what a sight. This is by far the *longest* thing I've seen on a kei truck.
Any hang over past 4feet needs a red flag.
there no holes in my roof because i didnt want to worry about leaks.
Discussion of cost-effectiveness compared to competitors
AA-racks and smittybilt overlander gen2 installed
Way cheaper than going the xtrusionoverland or something equivalent.
Discussion on compatibility with bed covers
I want to get a bed cover and use that most days but also put on my bed racks when I need them but not always keep them on and ruin my mpg.
For regular tonneau covers you won't be able to do that.
What brand bed rack did you use?
I don’t have my Maverick yet but I’ve got my eye on the [Truxedo Elevate TS rails] that work with T slot bed racks and some hard and soft tonneau covers.

Cautionary Callouts

Know the pitfalls before they catch you off guard.
Concerns about longevity of universal racks
My roof rack is Adrian steel, fairly inexpensive, clips into gutters perfectly and works well.
User reviews and recommendations for the AA-Racks product
This is the one I am getting and that another dude in this forum already got and posted pics and review of.

You May Also Like

Explore more Categories
Bed Liners
Top Truck Bed Liner Solutions for Ultimate Protection
Top Truck Bed Liner Solutions for Ultimate Protection
Tailgate Seals
Top Tailgate Seals for Truck Bed Protection
Top Tailgate Seals for Truck Bed Protection
Bed Tents
Transform Your Truck Bed into a Private Retreat with Bed Tents
Transform Your Truck Bed into a Private Retreat with Bed Tents