Homemade Alternative to the ATV Drop Rack

Because of its versatility and power, the four wheel drive ATV has become the sportsman's vehicle of choice. Able to power though tough terrain, and carry heavy loads with ease, an ATV is useful for hunters, farmers, outdoorsmen, and anyone who enjoys getting into the woods off the beaten track. An ATV Drop Rack is a metal-framed, wire mesh basket made for carrying supplies that mounts to the back of the vehicle.

  1. The Drop Rack's Usefulness

    • Because the ATV is a multipurpose vehicle, a basket or storage chest mounted on the back of the vehicle has hundreds of uses. Like a tool box in the back of a pickup truck, a drop rack can carry any supplies that the ATV rider will use when he reaches his destination. Drop racks are low to the ground, level with the back end of the vehicle. This means that even heavy objects can be lifted onto the vehicle with relative ease.

    Mounting Brackets

    • Drop racks are made from steel bar stock that is bolted to the ATV's framework. Just under the fiberglass rear fenders, the vehicle's steel reinforcing frame is easily accessible. The drop rack bolts to the ATV's frame, and becomes part of vehicle. A simple homemade replacement for this part of the drop rack is perforated steel angle iron. Available at any hardware store, ATV owners can cut these steel mounting bars to lengths that fit their ATV perfectly, and bolt them into place with short carriage bolts.

    Alternative Baskets

    • Once the metal mounting brackets are bolted in place, ATV owners can fabricate their own baskets from many materials. The most important factor is what the basket will be used for. Owners can make simple baskets from wood slats to carry lightweight items. Store bought poly vinyl storage crates are available at big box home centers. These items mount easily to a set of homemade mounting brackets.

    Other Options

    • Sold by retailers that feature pick up truck tool boxes, all purpose plastic storage chests are an excellent choice for homemade drop rack boxes. Lightweight, durable, double walled and water proof, these storage chests bolt easily to a homemade mounting rack with short carriage bolts. The storage chest would keep equipment safe while traveling, and can be removed for storage in and around the home during the off season.