I always manage to break the tap (too many thumbs). Actually I will drill a big hole in the plate, insert the nut and weld it in place, the nut to the plate. Also I had to use my rack today so I used sewn slings( a loop of webbing) to wrap around the rack cross bars and tied down with that. This proved to be cheap and easy to use.

I, too, am a cheap owner of a Rhino Rack Pioneer Platform rack. I was looking for a way to mount my awning, traction boards, and cargo carrier without paying too much. Plus, I was looking for a project.

I bought 3/8" thick by 3/4" wide aluminum stock from McMaster Carr (Part # 8975K615) in 1' lengths and cut them into four 3" long pieces. I then drilled and tapped the pieces to 5/16-24 and powder-coated them black. I can slide them into the channels on the Rhino Rack and use them to secure my accessories.

McMaster Carr sells a variety of eye bolts that would work well or you can see what your friendly local Hardware Store has.

Let me know if you want a cheap idea for mounting the Rhino Rack to the top of your 4Runner. I already did that and bought the shirt.

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I'm cheaper still...I bought the steel mesh rack and I think its an underrated roof rack solution. I have mounted fuel jerrys, swag and everything else up there with no issues.

Imgur: Here it is