Leitner Designs Active Cargo System For RAM Trucks
Transform your RAM truck into an adventure-ready machine with the Leitner Designs ACS FORGED bed rack. Whether you're outfitting a RAM 1500 bed rack for weekend trips or need a heavy-duty RAM 2500 bed rack for serious overlanding, this no-drill system delivers professional-grade cargo capacity without permanent modifications.
Built in Corona, California, the Leitner ACS represents the culmination of five years of development and real-world testing. We're talking hundreds of thousands of miles on the toughest trails and harshest conditions imaginable. This RAM bed rack isn't just designed on computers—it's proven in the real world.
The Leitner bed rack fits the entire RAM truck lineup, from RAM 1500 to heavy-duty RAM 2500 and 3500 models. With multiple bed length options available, you'll find the perfect configuration for your specific truck.
What Is The Leitner Designs ACS FORGED?
The ACS FORGED represents Leitner's next-generation Active Cargo System. It builds on the battle-tested foundation of the original ACS Classic while incorporating modern engineering improvements. This RAM 1500 bed rack and heavy-duty variant have been refined through extensive customer feedback and extreme testing.
This RAM bed rack features single-piece aluminum alloy uprights that eliminate weak points you'd find in welded designs. Combined with custom Grade 10.9 alloy steel fasteners, you get a system engineered to handle extreme abuse. The black Zi-Ni coating on every bolt provides superior corrosion resistance, and pre-applied Loctite prevents loosening under the constant vibration of off-road driving.
The NDNS (No Drill, No Slide) configuration means this RAM 2500 bed rack bolts to your truck's existing factory mounting points without drilling. The rear load bar remains fixed, making it perfect for permanent rooftop tent installations or gear carriers that stay mounted year-round.
Leitner Bed Rack Key Features
True No-Drill Installation
The Leitner Designs bed rack preserves your RAM's bed integrity completely. By utilizing factory mounting points, you avoid drilling holes that could lead to rust, leaks, or structural concerns. This reversible installation means you can remove the rack without leaving any trace—critical for maintaining resale value and warranty coverage.
Aircraft-Grade Aluminum Construction
Weighing just 85 pounds, this RAM bed rack delivers serious strength without the weight penalty of steel alternatives. The aluminum alloy construction means better fuel economy, improved handling, and less strain on your suspension. Plus, aluminum naturally resists corrosion, so you won't see rust forming after years of exposure.
Professional-Grade Fasteners
Every single fastener in this RAM 1500 bed rack system is specifically engineered for the ACS FORGED. The Grade 10.9 rating exceeds standard hardware strength significantly, while the black Zi-Ni coating provides exceptional corrosion protection. Pre-applied Loctite on every fastener means you won't spend time retightening bolts after rough roads.
Quad-Rail Load Beam Design
The heavy-duty 2.0-inch square load bars feature four T-slot channels—two on top, one fore-aft, and two on the bottom. This quad-rail configuration on your RAM 2500 bed rack gives you virtually unlimited mounting options for accessories, tie-downs, recovery gear, and custom solutions.
Cross-Brand Accessory Compatibility
Your Leitner bed rack works seamlessly with Thule, Rhino-Rack, and Yakima accessories. Already invested in crossbars or cargo systems? They'll mount directly to your RAM bed rack without adapters. This compatibility expands your options and protects your existing investment.
DECKED System Integration
Running a DECKED drawer system in your RAM bed? The Leitner Designs ACS FORGED mounts right above it. You get organized drawer storage below and massive cargo capacity above—the ultimate combination for serious truck users and overlanders.
Optional GearPod Storage
Leitner's patented GearPods (US Patent 10259508) add locking, weather-resistant storage within easy reach. These aerodynamic boxes follow your truck's body lines to reduce wind noise while keeping tools, recovery equipment, and valuables secure and dry.
Leitner Designs ACS Specifications
Specification
Details
Weight
85 lbs
Height from Bed Caps
23 inches
Load Bar Size
2.0" square
Material
Aluminum alloy
Fasteners
Grade 10.9 black Zi-Ni coated
Off-Road Dynamic Capacity
400 lbs
On-Road Dynamic Capacity
800 lbs
Static Capacity (Parked)
1,400 lbs
Finish
Dual-stage powder coated
Manufacturing
Corona, California, USA
Patent
US Patent 9586629
Weight Capacity Explained
The Leitner bed rack offers three different weight ratings for different use scenarios. Understanding these ratings ensures safe operation of your RAM 1500 bed rack or heavy-duty setup.
The off-road dynamic rating of 400 pounds applies during active off-road driving on trails, forest roads, and rough terrain. This conservative rating ensures everything stays secure when your RAM bed rack is bouncing and flexing over obstacles.
The on-road dynamic rating of 800 pounds doubles your capacity for highway and paved road use. This rating works perfectly for road trips with bikes, cargo boxes, kayaks, or camping gear mounted on your RAM 2500 bed rack.
The static rating of 1,400 pounds applies when parked. This massive capacity easily handles the heaviest rooftop tents available. You can sleep comfortably in your tent without worrying about stressing the rack or your RAM's bed structure.
RAM Bed Rack Installation
Installing the Leitner Designs ACS on your RAM is refreshingly straightforward. The no-drill design eliminates the need for specialized tools, welding, or fabrication skills. You just need basic hand tools and a couple of hours.
Begin by positioning the side rails over your RAM's factory bed mounting points. Leitner's precision laser-cutting ensures perfect alignment with your specific RAM model. Secure the rails using the included stainless steel mounting hardware, threading bolts into existing factory mounting points.
After securing the rails, slide the crossbars into the side rail channels. Position them based on your cargo requirements—close together for small items, farther apart for rooftop tents or long cargo. Add the wind deflector by sliding T-nuts into the front crossbar's aluminum extrusion.
Most RAM 1500 bed rack installations take 2-4 hours depending on experience and whether you're adding accessories. Leitner provides comprehensive instructions with every rack, and detailed installation videos are available online.
Modular Design Benefits
The Leitner ACS shines through its modular design. Unlike fixed welded racks, this RAM bed rack lets you customize crossbar spacing for any cargo situation you encounter.
Mounting a rooftop tent? Position crossbars according to the manufacturer's specifications. Hauling bikes? Space them to support the wheels properly. Carrying lumber or kayaks? Adjust spacing to maximize support and stability across the entire load.
The T-slot channels in every crossbar accept standard T-nuts and bolts, making it simple to add custom mounts, light brackets, recovery board holders, or tie-down points exactly where needed. This flexibility means your RAM 2500 bed rack grows with your needs.
RAM 1500 Compatibility
The Leitner Designs bed rack fits RAM 1500 models from 2009-2025 across multiple bed lengths:
5-7" short bed (SKU 00-5.6NSA-1594): Classic/Quad Cab configuration
6-4" standard bed (SKU 00-6.4NSA-1595): Most common bed length
8-0" long bed (SKU 00-8.0NDNS-1710): Extended bed, priced at $1,950
Important Note: This RAM 1500 bed rack is NOT compatible with RAMBOX storage systems or the 60/40 Multifunction Tailgate. If your truck has these features, you'll need to remove them or choose a different rack solution.
RAM 2500 & 3500 Compatibility
Heavy-duty RAM owners have multiple bed length options for their RAM 2500 bed rack or RAM 3500 setup:
6-4" standard bed (SKU 00-6.4NSA-1595): Fits RAM 2500/3500, 2009-2025
8-0" long bed (SKU 00-8.0NDNS-1710): Fits RAM 2500/3500, 2002-2025, priced at $1,950
The 8-foot bed rack costs $1,950 due to additional materials and engineering required for the longer span. This ensures the same strength and durability across the extended length.
Important Note: Like the RAM 1500 bed rack, these are NOT compatible with RAMBOX or 60/40 Multifunction Tailgate options.
Compatible Accessories
The Leitner bed rack transforms your RAM into a true adventure platform. Rooftop tents from CVT, Roofnest, iKamper, Tepui, and other manufacturers mount directly to your RAM bed rack. The 1,400-pound static capacity handles even the largest family-sized hardshell tents.
Bike racks, kayak carriers, and cargo boxes from Thule, Yakima, and Rhino-Rack integrate seamlessly using the quad-rail T-slot mounting system. Carry multiple bikes, kayaks, paddleboards, or combinations of different gear simultaneously on your RAM 1500 bed rack or heavy-duty setup.
Recovery equipment like Maxtrax, Hi-Lift jacks, off-road lighting, jerry can holders, shovel mounts, and axe holders all find easy mounting points. The modular design lets you configure your RAM 2500 bed rack exactly how you want it.
Leitner's own accessory ecosystem includes GearPods for secure storage, dedicated light mounting brackets, table systems, and more—all engineered specifically for the ACS platform.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
No-drill installation preserves RAM bed integrity and resale value
Lightweight aluminum construction maintains fuel economy and handling
Industry-leading 1,400-pound static capacity for heavy rooftop tents
Fits RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 across multiple bed lengths
Cons:
Not compatible with RAMBOX storage or 60/40 Multifunction Tailgate
Fixed rear bar limits loading options for motorcycles and ATVs
Why Choose Leitner Designs?
Leitner Designs has perfected truck bed racks through years of real-world testing in extreme conditions. The ACS FORGED isn't theoretical engineering—it's built by people who actually use their trucks hard and understand what works and what fails.
American manufacturing in Corona, California ensures strict quality control and supports domestic jobs. The limited lifetime warranty backs up Leitner's confidence in their engineering and materials.
Compare this to imported racks that might save money initially but use inferior aluminum, questionable welds, and lack proper engineering for your specific RAM model. Your Leitner bed rack will still be performing when cheaper alternatives have failed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which RAM trucks are compatible?
This rack fits RAM 1500 (2009-2025), RAM 2500 (2009-2025), and RAM 3500 (2009-2025) across multiple bed lengths. NOT compatible with RAMBOX or 60/40 Multifunction Tailgate.
Can I keep my RAMBOX with this rack?
No. The Leitner Designs ACS FORGED is not compatible with the RAMBOX storage system. You'll need to choose between RAMBOX and the bed rack.
Will this fit my RAM 1500 bed rack if I have the Multifunction Tailgate?
No. The 60/40 Multifunction Tailgate is not compatible with this rack system due to mounting point conflicts.
Can I install this myself?
Yes. The bolt-on design requires only basic hand tools. Most RAM bed rack installations complete in 2-4 hours. Having a helper makes positioning the assembled rack easier.
What about fuel economy impact?
The 85-pound weight and low-profile design minimize fuel economy impact on your RAM 1500 bed rack setup. Actual impact depends on what you carry—empty racks have minimal effect.
