A folding half rack is one of the smartest ways to save space in a home gym without sacrificing safety or versatility. The Manticore Folding Half Rack takes this up a notch, but only if you install it correctly.
This guide walks through the setup step by step, highlighting what to watch for, how to keep everything square, and how to avoid common mistakes. By the end, you’ll have a rack that folds smoothly, anchors securely, and doesn’t chew up your drywall in the process.
Quick Overview: What to Expect
Here’s the big picture before diving in:
- Lay out all the parts and pick the exact wall spot.
- Locate studs or plan to use a stringer if they don’t line up.
- Choose connector height carefully (ceiling, reach, and outlets all play a role).
- Assemble on the floor, tighten bolts fully, then lift and anchor to the wall.
Finding Studs for Wall Mounting
Clear the area and organize every box and part. Use a stud finder to locate studs behind the drywall. Remember, the width of the rack is fixed by the pull-up bar, not by where your studs happen to be.
If the uprights don’t match your stud layout, the solution is a stringer (a horizontal wood backing). Fasten the rack’s anchors into the stringer, and you’ll get a solid mount exactly where the rack needs to go.
Determining the Ideal Height for the Rack
Connector placement is a balancing act. Keep in mind:
- Ceiling height + upright length (72", 84", 90", 106").
- Keep the bottom connector low but clear of outlets or trim. Too high and your Spotter Arms won’t sit low enough for benching.
- Set the top connector slightly below max reach so you can adjust the pull-up bar.
- Leave a little space above for mirrors or wall decor.
Building the Rack Structure
Assemble the rack on the ground first. This ensures all connectors line up and the spacing matches the pull-up bar. The Manticore rack is about 49" wide, but always measure yours to be sure.
Tighten everything completely during this stage, not just finger-tight. Since the rack folds, loose bolts can cause wobble and wear later on.
Folding Connectors: Short vs. Long
The Manticore has both short and long folding connectors.
- Short connectors (like 24") fold in easily without interference.
- Long connectors (like 43") may need one side flipped so both uprights fold flat.
Before anchoring, test the fold on the floor. Adjust bolt and pin orientation until everything tucks away neatly.
Setting the Rack in Place
When lifting the assembled rack, grab a second person if possible. Tilt it up carefully so it doesn’t scrape drywall or trim.
Hold it against the wall and check for square and plumb with a level (laser levels are handy, but a carpenter’s level works too). Mark anchor spots while everything is lined up.
Tip: Leave a little clearance above the anchor mounts so the uprights can fold smoothly into place without dragging the floor.
Anchoring the Rack Securely
Most setups use a 2x8 stringer mounted horizontally across the wall. Paint or finish it if you want it to blend in.
Steps:
- Mark anchor centers on the stringer.
- Pre-drill to avoid splitting.
- Use lag bolts long enough to bite into studs or solid backing.
- Fasten anchors to the stringer.
- Lift the rack into place and secure.
Final Checks
Before loading weight onto your new rack, confirm:
- All bolts and uprights are fully tightened.
- The folding motion is smooth and clears the wall/floor.
- Anchors are solid with no wiggle.
Check pivot pins and bolts periodically, just like barbells and plates; racks appreciate a little maintenance.
Conclusion
Installing the Manticore Folding Half Rack isn’t complicated, but it does require planning. Build on the floor first, use a stringer if studs don’t line up, set connector heights thoughtfully, and tighten everything before anchoring. Done right, you’ll have a sturdy rack that folds away neatly and makes the most of your training space.
Bells of Steel also offers other folding rack options, and the same general installation rules apply across the board. So whether you choose the Manticore or another model, these tips will keep your setup safe, secure, and ready for serious training.
