Roof-rack suggestions please

[bhanganek]

Good day all

I have a Gen 3 LWB, with standard factory roof-rails

My ideas of a roof-rack, and why I need one in the near future, is as follows

1. I am planning an awning, and this will be attached to the vehicle via the gutter rail, ( the same as is fitted to some caravans). So I would need to fasten this "gutter rail" to either the current roof-rails, or a new roof-rack fitted to the roof

If I keep the current roof-rails, and because of their bend, I was thinking of adding either a aluminium 25mm square length fastened to the rail, or I must go the more expensive route, and get something like the Frontrunner roof-rails that can be fastened to the current vehicles rails

I would not need the "gutter-rail" to be a permanent fixture, only required at this time, when I go to the dam for a day of fishing

But

I might be in the position in the next year or two, to plan a longer trip to either Namibia or Botswana, and then I will require a roof-rack to carry a few extra things

So

Should I rather opt to start with the more expensive roof-rack options, or is there maybe someone who has played with similar ideas in the past, that could guide me a bit

If it is a roof-rack, do I opt to fasten this to the current rails, or rather remove the rails, and have the full length flat Frontrunner rails mounted to the roof, and then roof-rack onto this?

Many thanks to those that can advise

[cloyd]

bhanganek,

A long time ago I changed my existing rack so that it still looks like a standard rack BUT it is a proper rack that can carry weight. The proviso for safety sale is that the load is still within the roof's limits for weight. It is able to take more weight but safety must always be a consideration. I did post some photos a long time ago. Send me your cell number and I shall send you some photos and explanation if you are interested

Cloyd 083 564 9141

[The_Gedi]

I recently transferred my roof rack from my old Nissan Sani that I had custom made some 18 years ago and which served me well. I debated mounting them on the existing rails but decided that they weren't ridged enough. I ended up stripping the roof lining to remove the old and attach the new. I used 20mm aluminium square bar to form a solid level rail and fabricated posts or feet also from 20mm square bar all using the same mounting holes as the rails. See attached photos.
Good luck with your build.

[Charlie]

Forget the roof rails they are inadequate for any any thing never mind a load. I have tried and believe me the attachment of those roof rails is for show only. I fitted the roof rack rails my self and increased the tie down bolts with a extra 2 bolts a side to spread the attachment of the rails to the roof. Can show you some photos if you like.

Charlie

Sent from my SM-G925F using Tapatalk

[zeek]

Hello,

I would also opt for the proper bolted down tracks and roof rack.

My african outback roof rack was for sale with the rails as I changed vehicles. I will put it back in the classified on the 4x4community as I don't post here very often and don't qualify

If you interested let me know, will put the link here later today

Regards

[bhanganek]

Thank you to all that have added their advise, and shared their experience

I am struggling to post here. Maybe this time it works

For those that have offered photo's, my cell number, 071 604 1825

Thank you again

Andries