Member Avatar for BobCochran

I'm trying to install the Rapid Rails that came with a new Dell PowerEdge 1850 server into a standard square-hole rack. The Dell Rapid Rails are just a little bit too short, about 1/2" or so. Are Dell Rapid Rails meant to install only in Dell-branded racks?

I don't know the brand name of the rack that I'm using, I need to check. I've already installed a 2U APC uninterruptible power supply and a small monitor in the rack using the rails supplied with those.

How can I fix this problem, do I need to order a different rail kit from Dell or from some other supplier?

Thanks

Bob

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A few practical checks and fixes to try before buying new parts.

As noted the supplied rails don’t seat, this is almost always a front‑to‑rear depth or mounting‑style mismatch rather than a Dell‑only limitation. As points out, Dell does offer different rail options, and as suggests some racks let you move the posts — so start by measuring carefully.

Measure this way:

  • Measure the usable rack depth from the inside face of the front mounting post to the inside face of the rear mounting post at the height you’ll mount the server.
  • With the server rails assembled, measure from the front rail flange (where the server front will sit) to the rear rail bracket. That is the rail length you need.
  • Note the hole type (square clip‑in, round, or threaded) and whether the rails are meant to mount inside the posts or to the outside of them.

Solutions that work in the field:

  • Order the correct rail variant (universal/adjustable depth) from Dell or an aftermarket vendor — give them the two measurements above and the rack hole type.
  • Use short metal L‑brackets or purpose rail‑extenders secured with cage nuts/screws to bridge a small gap; make sure rear anchors are rated for the server weight.
  • As a temporary fallback use a ventilated shelf to carry the rear if rails truly won’t reach — not ideal for hot or heavy systems.

Ordering tips: give suppliers the server model, measured depth (inches/mm), hole type, and expected load. Confirm return policy and weight rating before installation.

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Member Avatar for jbennet

Under "customise your system" on thier website you can choose the dell or generic ones

Member Avatar for server_rack

I'm trying to install the Rapid Rails that came with a new Dell PowerEdge 1850 server into a standard square-hole rack. The Dell Rapid Rails are just a little bit too short, about 1/2" or so. Are Dell Rapid Rails meant to install only in Dell-branded racks?

I don't know the brand name of the rack that I'm using, I need to check. I've already installed a 2U APC uninterruptible power supply and a small monitor in the rack using the rails supplied with those.

How can I fix this problem, do I need to order a different rail kit from Dell or from some other supplier?

Thanks

Bob

Bob,

Even our server racks work with all Dell rails. In fact, I only know of 1 chassis that would not fit in our rack and that was a custom system.

Our 4 post racks have adjustable posts; they can be moved as close as 5" and as far as 32", so that covers most all equipment.

Most racks have some level of adjustment even if other racks do not adjust their posts as much as ours...can you adjust your posts?

commented: 3 years late with the pithy ad / sig links. Did you bother to read the post dates to find out if your wibble was in any way relevant and timely for the OP? -6
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