6 Best Hi-Lift Jack Mounts For Exterior Storage For Trucks

A Hi-Lift jack is an essential tool for self-recovery, yet its cumbersome size often leads to poor storage choices that compromise vehicle handling. Finding the right mounting location transforms this awkward piece of steel from a nuisance into a seamless component of the rig’s trail readiness. The following selections prioritize stability, accessibility, and structural integrity to ensure the equipment remains secure across the harshest terrain.

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Hi-Lift 4XRAC Mount: Best Overall Bed Solution

The 4XRAC system stands as the gold standard for those who prefer to keep their jack mounted vertically or horizontally inside the truck bed. By bolting directly into the sidewalls, it utilizes factory mounting points to ensure a rock-solid, vibration-free hold that won’t rattle loose on washboard roads. It is the premier choice for owners who want their jack protected from the elements while maintaining a clean, streamlined exterior appearance.

Because this system secures the jack within the confines of the bed, it preserves the truck’s aerodynamics and keeps the load center low. This placement is ideal for overlanders who utilize bed toppers or tonneau covers, as it keeps the heavy steel bar contained and out of the way of daily cargo. If the truck bed is already dedicated to camping gear, however, consider that this mount will require careful Tetris-style packing to accommodate the jack’s length.

This is the definitive mount for those who prioritize security and a low-profile aesthetic above all else. It is a no-nonsense, highly durable solution that removes the guesswork from installation. For the vast majority of truck owners, this is the most reliable way to stow a jack without sacrificing utility.

Hi-Lift TM-700 Tube Mount: Best for Custom Bars

For enthusiasts running custom headache racks, roll cages, or aftermarket tube bumpers, the Hi-Lift TM-700 is the ultimate modular companion. This mount uses a versatile clamping mechanism designed to grip varying tube diameters, making it the most adaptable option for non-standard vehicle builds. It allows for quick adjustments, meaning the jack can be repositioned as the vehicle’s accessory configuration evolves.

The strength of the TM-700 lies in its mechanical simplicity and ability to be tightened without specialized tools in the field. When tackling technical trails where a jack might need to be moved to gain better clearance or balance, the adjustability provided by these clamps is unmatched. Keep in mind that the hardware requires periodic tightening; road vibration over time can loosen the grip on round tubing if not checked during pre-trip inspections.

If the truck features a custom rack system or a minimalist setup with exposed frame rails, the TM-700 is the clear winner. It respects the unique geometry of a custom build while providing a bombproof attachment point. This mount is for the builder who demands flexibility without compromising the safety of their gear.

Rugged Ridge Off-Road Mount: Top Roll Bar Pick

The Rugged Ridge mount is engineered specifically for vehicles that utilize an external roll bar system, such as those found on many specialized off-road builds or classic flat-bed setups. It uses a high-strength clamping system that distributes the weight of the heavy jack across the bar, preventing deformation or surface damage to the paint. This is an excellent choice for those who need their jack accessible from the outside of the vehicle at a moment’s notice.

Accessing a jack from a roll bar is significantly faster than pulling one from the deep recesses of a truck bed, especially when the vehicle is mired in mud or deep sand. Because it sits higher, the jack remains clear of the grit and slush that often accumulates near the tires. While this positioning increases the vehicle’s aesthetic “adventure” factor, remember that it raises the center of gravity slightly and leaves the tool exposed to UV radiation and moisture.

This mount is perfectly suited for high-clearance rigs and dedicated trail machines where accessibility is the highest priority. It turns the heavy, awkward jack into a visible and usable asset. Choose this mount if the primary goal is rapid deployment during trail-side recovery.

Relentless Fabrication Mount: Best for Tacomas

Tailored specifically for the unique bed geometry of the Toyota Tacoma, the Relentless Fabrication mount is a masterclass in vehicle-specific engineering. It bolts directly to the Tacoma’s factory bed rail system, utilizing the existing tracks for a clean, drill-free installation. This ensures that the jack stays upright and tucked tightly against the side of the bed, maximizing the remaining cargo space.

This mount is a favorite for long-distance overlanders because it eliminates the risk of drilling into the truck’s bed liner or frame. It creates a dedicated home for the jack that feels like a factory accessory, maintaining the integrity of the truck’s body panels. The trade-off is its lack of compatibility with other vehicle makes, but for a Tacoma owner, this is a distinct advantage in terms of fit and finish.

If a Tacoma is the base for the next adventure, there is no reason to look elsewhere. The structural rigidity and native fit of the Relentless Fabrication mount provide peace of mind that a universal bracket simply cannot match. It is the smartest, cleanest way to equip a Tacoma for the backcountry.

Rhino-Rack Pioneer Bracket: Top Roof Rack Mount

Roof storage is often the only option for trucks with short beds or heavy towing needs, and the Rhino-Rack Pioneer bracket is the standard-bearer for this category. By utilizing the channel system on a flat roof platform, these brackets spread the weight of the jack across the rack’s crossbars. This distribution is critical to preventing fatigue on the roof rack itself, even when tackling rugged, uneven terrain.

Mounting a jack on the roof creates significant extra room in the cabin and bed, which is a massive benefit for multi-day trips. However, the trade-off is the significant physical exertion required to lift a 30-plus pound jack onto the roof of a tall truck. Additionally, ensure that the roof rack load rating can handle the combined weight of the jack, the mount, and any other gear stored overhead.

The Rhino-Rack solution is for the traveler who needs to reclaim every square inch of their truck bed for sleeping or camping equipment. It is robust, well-engineered, and keeps the jack out of the way until it is absolutely needed. For roof-based storage, this is the most secure and dependable option available.

Garvin Wilderness Mount: Most Secure Hood Option

For those who prioritize weight distribution and want to keep the jack readily available at the front of the vehicle, the Garvin Wilderness hood mount is a standout. It utilizes the vehicle’s hinge mounting points to create a stable, low-slung platform that keeps the jack away from the cargo area entirely. This is a common choice for those who want their recovery gear visible and accessible without interfering with bed access.

The main advantage here is how it balances the weight of a heavy rear-mounted spare tire or heavy camping loads in the back. By shifting the weight forward, the handling dynamics of the truck remain more neutral. Be mindful that mounting a jack to the hood can obstruct the driver’s forward visibility slightly and requires caution when opening the hood, as the jack’s weight will make it significantly harder to lift.

This mount is designed for the serious enthusiast who understands the physics of weight distribution and is willing to trade a small amount of visibility for better truck balance. It is a niche solution that excels in specific, weight-conscious builds. If the truck is already heavy in the rear, this is the best way to regain control and stability.

How to Choose the Right Mount Spot for Your Rig

The primary factor in choosing a mount is the balance between accessibility and cargo utility. If the truck is used for daily errands and occasional camping, a bed-side mount is likely sufficient. For more aggressive trail use, where the vehicle may be high-centered or stuck, an exterior-mounted jack is much easier to reach when the chassis is buried in the muck.

Consider the physical height of the vehicle as well. Reaching a jack from a roof rack on a lifted truck can be hazardous during an emergency, particularly in slick or muddy conditions. Always test the effort required to remove the jack before a trip; if it is physically straining to reach, reconsider the placement regardless of how “cool” it looks.

Finally, evaluate the mount’s impact on the vehicle’s profile. A jack mounted on the side or rear may increase the overall width or length of the rig, potentially snagging on trail obstacles like tight rock walls or heavy brush. Always account for the extra inches the jack adds to the vehicle’s footprint when navigating narrow terrain.

Essential Safety Tips for Exterior Jack Storage

The most critical rule of exterior jack storage is ensuring the mechanism is properly tensioned to prevent movement. A rattling jack is not just an annoyance; it is a sign that metal-on-metal wear is occurring, which can lead to a catastrophic failure of the mounting bracket. Use a high-quality, heavy-duty rubber strap to secure the jack handle to the bar, preventing it from vibrating and accidentally engaging.

Always ensure that the jack is stored in the “down” or “lowered” position, with the lifting toe locked securely at the bottom of the bar. This keeps the center of gravity as low as possible and prevents the heavy cast iron assembly from sliding. Regularly inspect the bolts and hardware on the mount, applying thread-locking compound if frequent off-road driving is on the agenda.

Lastly, be mindful of the jack’s orientation relative to the vehicle’s departure and approach angles. If a mount forces the jack to extend past the bumper, it becomes a liability on steep inclines or declines. Always verify that the jack remains within the protective geometry of the truck’s frame rails or bodywork to avoid trail damage.

Protecting Your Hi-Lift From Rust and Elements

A Hi-Lift jack is essentially a large piece of raw steel that is highly susceptible to corrosion, especially when mounted externally. To keep the mechanism functional, apply a generous coat of specialized dry lubricant or wax-based protectant to the moving parts. Avoid using thick, sticky grease, as it will attract trail dust and sand, which turns into an abrasive grinding paste within the jack’s internal components.

When the vehicle is not on the trail, consider covering the jack with a high-quality, weatherproof vinyl sleeve. This prevents moisture from seeping into the small cracks of the ratchet mechanism and protects the finish from UV fading. Even with a cover, periodic cleaning with a mild degreaser and a fresh application of lubricant is essential for long-term reliability.

Rust is the primary enemy of trail readiness, and once it takes hold in the ratchet pins, the tool becomes dangerous to operate. By staying ahead of oxidation with simple maintenance, the jack will be ready to perform the moment it is needed. Remember, a seized jack is just an expensive piece of dead weight.

Locks and Anti-Theft Upgrades for Peace of Mind

Because Hi-Lift jacks are high-visibility, desirable tools, they are frequent targets for theft when left on the exterior of a vehicle. Relying on basic wing nuts or bolts is an invitation for trouble. Invest in a keyed-alike, hardened steel locking pin that replaces the standard hardware, effectively rendering the jack useless to anyone without the key.

Many manufacturers offer specialized locking mounts that incorporate a padlock or a tamper-proof cylinder. While no system is completely impenetrable to a determined thief, a sturdy lock is a significant deterrent that encourages opportunists to move on to easier targets. Using a secondary braided steel security cable as a backup is also a low-cost, highly effective insurance policy.

Always secure the jack in a way that requires more than a simple wrench to remove. If a thief has to spend significant time and make a lot of noise to steal the equipment, they are unlikely to linger. Security is about adding layers of difficulty; the more steps involved in detaching the tool, the safer the equipment will remain while the truck is parked at a trailhead or campsite.

Properly mounting a Hi-Lift jack is more than a simple gear installation; it is an investment in self-reliance and vehicle safety. By selecting a mount that fits the unique requirements of the truck and the terrain, you ensure that help is always at hand when the trail gets tough. Get the gear secured, perform the necessary maintenance, and focus on the road—or the lack thereof—ahead.