Do I need to install any rail reinforcement when using a saddle type tool box? I am looking at the weatherguard 117. Any comments? Is there another product just as good for less $$$$ ? Thanks for any replies in advance.

Thats a good box, hard to beat. If your worried about weight put some treated wood blocks under it. This will cause some rust eventually unless bed is spray caoted. I used this method with a GreenLee box on my last truck.

TQj,

What year is your truck? I spoke with a GM person through GM Upfitters and he said that midway through 2003 they revised the beds and the factory rails should hold 400lbs in the form of a cross bed toolbox. It is actually in the instruction manual (I didn't know it either). In the manual they recommend using the reinforcement kit that GM provides, but does not state it is required in order to achieve the 400lb capacity.

You might want to visit this thread:
http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/showthread.php?t=19594

It should answer many of your questions.

JMO but get a bed liner and get the over the rails application. I would sandwitch a peice of 1/4"x3" flatstock under the box and ending at the end of the cab or use the bed rail deals. Even if you have the "revised" box its better safe than sorry. I am running a support on my truck with a weathergaurd box and have no problems on my 03. I love my box! placing something on the bottom of the box so its partialy resting on the bed also and not 100% on the rails would help too and work fine IMO.

I've only owned my weatherguard box as this is my first pickup but I've had it for about 4 months now and I love it. Easy to take care of and the quality of workmanship is excellent. Plus I was and am planning on getting a retrax for my truck so the buttons on the side are a big plus for me. As far as the rails go I have over the rail line-x but my box hasn't seen a lot of weight in it so I can't comment on that.

Thanks for the info. My truck is an 05 2500 HD 4x4 CC. I've had it about a week and love it so far.