What is another name for front-end header boards?
Headache racks
Cargo stoppers
Head braces
Ballasts
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is Headache racks.
Explanation:
A headache rack is a term commonly used to describe a protective barrier or structure located at the front of the bed of a truck, typically behind the cab. It is designed to protect the vehicle’s cab and the driver from damage caused by shifting loads, especially when hauling cargo. In essence, a headache rack serves as a type of front-end header board, although “headache rack” is the more specific term used in the context of trucks and transport.
The term “headache rack” is believed to have originated from the idea that when the truck is loaded improperly, there’s a risk of cargo shifting forward, which could cause damage to the cab, or potentially injure the driver. The headache rack acts as a safety feature, preventing the driver from experiencing this “headache” by shielding the cab from heavy cargo. In addition to safety, these racks often feature additional storage or mounting options for tools, lights, and other accessories.
Differentiating Terms:
- Cargo stoppers: While cargo stoppers may refer to various devices that prevent cargo from shifting, they do not specifically describe the protective racks found on trucks. Cargo stoppers might be a generic term for any obstacle used to hold cargo in place, but it’s not used synonymously with headache racks.
- Head braces: This term is more associated with structural supports and isn’t typically used for the protective barriers on trucks.
- Ballasts: Ballasts refer to weights or stabilizing materials used in different contexts, often in vehicles or electrical systems, but they are not related to headache racks or front-end header boards.
Therefore, “headache racks” are the specific term for the front-end header boards used in the trucking industry.