ROOF RACKS

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Mamalloy

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OK, my rig is a 2013 Silverado crew cab. I've researched just about everything overlanding and everything starts at 2014 and up. Mounting anything on the cab doesn't seem like an option as there are no gutters, etc unless I opt for bars from Thule/Rhino/etc. Next option is on my camper shell but I don't want anything modular like the Rhino Pioneer or Frontrunner. They look well built but most roads/trails in AZ are pretty rutty and I've heard of the modular racks coming apart with vibration. The ARB base rack seems like my best option as it a solid welded rack but my concern is mounting and waterproofing once I start drilling into the shell. Any suggestions would be much appreciated.
 
North American Sojourner

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MOAK

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Not to be a curmudgeon or anything, but I’ve heard rumor about modular roof racks coming apart as well. However, mine, over the past 8 years and thousands of off pavement miles hasn’t even developed a loose bolt or nut. I’ve never met anyone that has had any problems with one loosening up, rattling or coming apart, at all. Decades ago I had a welded rack, not only did some of the welds break, but I had to have new hoops fabricated as they rusted through in less than 5 years. I hope this helps in your decision making process as all too often we all make decisions based upon rumor or unsubstantiated stories and end up regretful. If your mind is made up, good luck to you.. peace out-
 
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Billiebob

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MOAK said:
Not to be a curmudgeon or anything, but I’ve heard rumor about modular roof racks coming apart as well. However, mine, over the past 8 years and thousands of off pavement miles hasn’t even developed a loose bolt or nut. I’ve never met anyone that has had any problems with one loosening up, rattling or coming apart, at all. Decades ago I had a welded rack, not only did some of the welds break, but I had to have new hoops fabricated as they rusted through in less than 5 years. I hope this helps in your decision making process as all too often we all make decisions based upon rumor or unsubstantiated stories and end up regretful. If your mind is made up, good luck to you.. peace out-
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yep, every contractor has them. they wouldn't if they rattled apart. the issue is likely unskilled labor assembling them. but nylox nuts will resolve any rattling loose issues
 
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MOAK

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Billiebob said:
yep, every contractor has them. they wouldn't if they rattled apart. the issue is likely unskilled labor assembling them. but nylox nuts will resolve any rattling loose issues
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You know what? I forgot about that. A lifetime ago I had a contracting business and the racks on my pick up bolted together and bolted upon the side boxes. I just don't understand the negative propaganda concerning modular racks. The South Africans or the Australians, both overlanding havens, cannot possibly be wrong. Those folks use what works.
 
smritte

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I agree with everyone on the durability of modular racks. I love the fact that they are modular and I can easily add on diffrent mounting. As for the front runners, I have a few friends with them and one of the guys had an issue with the corner trim on his. Its not structural, just cosmetic. If that's a "thing" with the front runners, that could be the bad press their having.
 
MOAK

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Those are simple load bars: I’m a purist, I think of definition # 1 when referring to something atop a vehicle.
www.merriam-webster.com

Definition of RACK

a framework, stand, or grating on or in which articles are placed; an instrument of torture on which a body is stretched; a cause of anguish or pain… See the full definition
www.merriam-webster.com www.merriam-webster.com
 
lhoffm4

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What about an over-shell contractor rack? I didn’t see one mentioned. That way it bolts to the truck bed rails and not the topper nor the cab. That’s what I started with. Then added an expanded metal deck for storage and for hanging solar panels. Contractor racks are definitely strong enough for both static and dynamic loads, can cover the entire truck bumper to bumper and serve a multitude of functions from supporting gear, tents, awnings, recovery gear, etc.
 
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lhoffm4 said:
What about an over-shell contractor rack? I didn’t see one mentioned. That way it bolts to the truck bed rails and not the topper nor the cab. That’s what I started with. Then added an expanded metal deck for storage and for hanging solar panels. Contractor racks are definitely strong enough for both static and dynamic loads, can cover the entire truck bumper to bumper and serve a multitude of functions from supporting gear, tents, awnings, recovery gear, etc.
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As you've seen, I have a shell on mine, but I think this "over-shell" contractor type is great. Seen it in other threads. A nice shell for dry, safe storage or sleeping, and the contractor rack for kayaks, RTT, spare wheel, or whatever
 
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Billiebob

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I'm thinking no matter what you drive someone makes a bolt on rack.
Ya might need to adjust yer expectations but the market is soo huge, someone will have a solution.
 
danwyandt

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Billiebob said:
I'm thinking no matter what you drive someone makes a bolt on rack.
Ya might need to adjust yer expectations but the market is soo huge, someone will have a solution.
Click to expand...
Thank goodness! There's still hope for my 69 mustang!
 
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danwyandt

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Unfortunately that looks like a 65 / 66, and not a fastback. Nice try though! :) I appreciate the try!
 
smritte

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Yea, pic was 67. Did a quick search for 69, got racks like that but no good pic.
Funny how things like that were popular on cars long ago. We called them "Luggage Racks" and "Roof Racks". I use to see them literally installed with sheet metal screws.
 
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