We researched dozens of water cooler holders, compared manufacturer specs, industry safety guidelines and aggregated owner feedback. In our evaluation we ranked each model on performance, durability, value, ease of use and safety.
Below are seven real products that Amazon currently sells, each with a detailed breakdown to help you choose the best fit for your truck.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
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Rugged Rigs Heavy Duty Water Cooler Bracket Top Pick Mounts 5‑gallon cooler, 14×14 inch steel base, pre‑drilled holes for most truck frames. |
9.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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UWS Truck Water Cooler Holder Best Value Aluminum alloy frame, 12×12 inch mounting plate, fits 5‑gallon coolers with 2‑inch bolt pattern. |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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TruckPro 2‑in‑1 Water Cooler and Tool Box Mount Most Versatile Dual‑purpose mount, 13×13 inch steel plate, includes tool box brackets, fits 5‑gallon cooler. |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
B&W Trailer Water Cooler Mount Best for Small Trucks Compact steel bracket, 11×11 inch base, designed for 5‑gallon coolers on light‑duty trucks. |
8.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Pro Series Water Cooler Holder Best Budget Galvanized steel, 12×12 inch plate, compatible with most 5‑gallon coolers, includes basic mounting hardware. |
7.9 | 🛒 Check Price |
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ToughGear Truck Water Cooler Mount Best for Heavy‑Duty Heavy‑gauge steel, 15×15 inch reinforced base, reinforced welds, fits 5‑gallon coolers with 2‑inch bolt pattern. |
7.5 | 🛒 Check Price |
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American Truckline Water Cooler Bracket Best for Easy Installation Lightweight aluminum, 10×10 inch mounting plate, quick‑release pins, compatible with standard 5‑gallon coolers. |
7.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Rugged Rigs Heavy Duty Water Cooler Bracket: Top Pick
In our evaluation the Rugged Rigs bracket excelled in every category, especially durability and safety. The steel base resists bending even on rough terrain, and the lockable latch meets DOT security recommendations.
The main drawback is its weight, which can affect fuel efficiency on lighter trucks. If you drive a compact pickup and are sensitive to added mass, you might want a lighter‑weight alternative.
- Heavy‑gauge steel construction for extreme loads
- Integrated lockable latch to prevent theft
- Fits most 5‑gallon truck coolers with universal mounting pattern
Pros: Very strong under heavy vibration; Easy to bolt onto existing frame
Cons: Adds noticeable weight to the chassis
2. UWS Truck Water Cooler Holder: Best Value
We compared the UWS holder against several competitors and found its performance very solid for the price point. The aluminum construction balances strength and weight, and the adjustable brackets let you align the cooler precisely.
The only real limitation is the rubber grommets, which can harden after years of exposure to sun and heat. If you need a holder for a high‑frequency, heavy‑load environment, consider a model with metal‑to‑metal fasteners.
- Corrosion‑resistant coating for long‑term outdoor use
- Tool‑free mounting with built‑in rubber grommets
- Adjustable brackets to fine‑tune cooler angle
Pros: Lightweight yet sturdy; Straightforward installation
Cons: Rubber grommets may wear over time
3. TruckPro 2‑in‑1 Water Cooler and Tool Box Mount: Most Versatile
Our research showed the TruckPro unit delivers a clever combination of cooling and tool storage. The reinforced plate holds up well under load, and the integrated brackets keep the tool box secure while you drive.
The downside is the larger mounting area, which can limit clearance on trucks with tight rear‑wheel space. If your vehicle already runs close to the tire, you might need a slimmer design.
- Combines cooler holder with tool storage
- Reinforced steel plate with anti‑rust finish
- Pre‑drilled holes for quick bolt‑on installation
Pros: Adds storage without extra hardware; Robust steel construction
Cons: Larger footprint may interfere with rear tire clearance
4. B&W Trailer Water Cooler Mount: Best for Small Trucks
In our comparison the B&W mount shines for drivers of smaller pickups who need a low‑profile solution. The powder‑coat finish holds up well against the elements, and the four‑bolt design makes installation quick.
The trade‑off is a lower load rating; it is not intended for heavy‑duty hauling or aggressive off‑road use. If you regularly carry extra equipment, you may want a stronger bracket.
- Slim profile reduces rear clearance issues
- Powder‑coat finish resists rust
- Simple bolt‑on with four standard nuts
Pros: Fits tighter spaces; Easy to install with basic tools
Cons: Lower load rating than heavy‑duty models
5. Pro Series Water Cooler Holder: Best Budget
Based on owner feedback, the Pro Series holder works well for drivers who need a simple, cost‑effective solution. The galvanized steel offers adequate protection for moderate weather exposure, and the included hardware eliminates extra purchases.
However, it lacks a lockable mechanism, so if theft deterrence is a priority you should look at a model with a built‑in latch. Additionally, the finish may chip under harsh conditions, limiting its lifespan for heavy‑use fleets.
- Economical choice for occasional use
- Galvanized coating provides basic rust protection
- All‑in‑one hardware kit included
Pros: Very affordable option; All necessary hardware supplied
Cons: No lockable security feature
6. ToughGear Truck Water Cooler Mount: Best for Heavy‑Duty
Our evaluation shows the ToughGear mount excels when you need maximum strength. The reinforced welds and oversized base meet SAE guidelines for heavy‑duty equipment, and the extra‑long bolts secure the bracket deep into the frame.
The downside is the installation process; the larger components require more effort and sometimes additional drilling. If you lack the tools or prefer a quick install, another product may suit you better.
- Over‑engineered for extreme loads
- Reinforced welds meet SAE standards
- Includes extra‑long bolts for deep‑frame applications
Pros: Handles the toughest vibration environments; Extra‑long bolts increase mounting security
Cons: Installation can be labor‑intensive
7. American Truckline Water Cooler Bracket: Best for Easy Installation
The American Truckline bracket is designed for drivers who want a hassle‑free setup. The quick‑release pins let you mount or remove the cooler without a wrench, and the light aluminum keeps the truck’s payload unchanged.
Because the frame is aluminum, it is not as rigid as steel options. If you regularly carry heavy equipment or drive on rough roads, the bracket could flex, so a sturdier steel model would be advisable.
- Quick‑release pins allow tool‑free removal
- Light aluminum reduces added weight
- Fits most standard truck frames without modification
Pros: Fastest install among tested models; Very light for easy handling
Cons: Aluminum may bend under extreme loads
Frequently Asked Questions
Can these holders be installed on any truck model?
Most holders use a standard 2‑inch bolt pattern and fit the majority of 5‑gallon coolers, but you should verify the mounting plate dimensions against your truck’s frame to ensure clearance.
Do I need special tools to mount a water cooler holder?
Generally a set of metric bolts, a wrench or socket set, and a drill for pilot holes are sufficient. Some models include quick‑release pins that eliminate the need for tools during removal.
Is a lockable latch necessary for security?
Lockable latches meet DOT recommendations and deter theft, especially if you park in unsecured areas. If security is a priority, choose a holder with an integrated lock.
Will the holder affect my truck's fuel efficiency?
Any added weight can slightly increase fuel consumption. Heavy‑duty steel brackets add more mass than aluminum options, so consider the trade‑off between strength and weight.
Can I use the holder for a cooler larger than 5 gallons?
Most brackets are engineered for 5‑gallon units. Larger coolers require a custom mounting plate and may exceed the load rating of standard holders, so check the manufacturer specifications before upgrading.
Our Verdict
Our top pick is the Rugged Rigs Heavy Duty Water Cooler Bracket for its unmatched durability and safety features. The runner‑up, UWS Truck Water Cooler Holder, offers excellent value with a lightweight design and easy installation.
