Jeep TJ Yakima Overhead Rack System

[Shamu]

Any TJ hardtop owners have a Yakima rack system installed? Wondering if any issues with the hardtop cracking or leaks developing. Thoughts during a week long overland in the CANY Maze. Plan to carry a Gazelle T3 tent, a Clam 4-sided screened shelter, and traction boards in order to clear some space/organization inside.

 

[KonzaLander]

Installed the Yakima rack on my '03 TJ hardtop back in '07. Used it for a few years to haul ski's around but never had any leaks or cracking. I do not think 100lbs distributed evenly would pose a problem for the top.

Below are a few pictures post install in '07. Sorry the quality is sub-par.

 

[Shamu]

E

Installed the Yakima rack on my '03 TJ hardtop back in '07. Used it for a few years to haul ski's around but never had any leaks or cracking. I do not think 100lbs distributed evenly would pose a problem for the top.

Below are a few pictures post install in '07. Sorry the quality is sub-par.
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Excellent pics. Thank you for the info. I’m removing my swing out tire & Jerry can carrier in order to reduce weight (and possible yaw movements on uneven surfaces...?). Thinking about a Gobi or Garvin rack but those add weight, although redistributed. The Yakima is lighter, just worried about the lateral G while carrying the above items while off-roading.

 

[Billiebob]

I've used the Yakima Landing Pads, Towers and Bars for years on 3 different Wranglers, starting with a YJ. Absolutely the best system. No issues with the roof or leaking or ???



I added a front bar off the bumper for 16' ladders too.



I'm not sure I would sleep in an RTT tho. I think for that kind of load I'd go for a full gobi style rack off the a-pillars and rear quarters.

 

[Shamu]

I've used the Yakima Landing Pads, Towers and Bars for years on 3 different Wranglers, starting with a YJ. Absolutely the best system. No issues with the roof or leaking or ???

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I added a front bar off the bumper for 16' ladders too.

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I'm not sure I would sleep in an RTT tho. I think for that kind of load I'd go for a full gobi style rack off the a-pillars and rear quarters.

Is the Bud can an option for increased load bearing?
Thanks! No RTT. Just to carry a Gazelle T3 ground tent, a Clam 4-sided screen tarp/shelter (small, enough for 2 w/chairs, table, cooler, mini bar...), and traction boards. Combined weight is probably slightly less than your ladders.

 

[Marco4X4]

Installed the Yakima rack on my '03 TJ hardtop back in '07. Used it for a few years to haul ski's around but never had any leaks or cracking. I do not think 100lbs distributed evenly would pose a problem for the top.

Below are a few pictures post install in '07. Sorry the quality is sub-par.
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View attachment 122305
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Very clean look, I like it. You've used silicon or something to seal it?

 

[KonzaLander]

Very clean look, I like it. You've used silicon or something to seal it?

I remember using some sort of clear silicon during the installation since the inside of the Jeep smelled for quite awhile. The install was more than 10 years ago, so I cannot recall any of the specifics.

 

[Shamu]

Pulled the trigger: