DIY Bolted Roof Rack

[T4RNightHawk]

Sorry if you thought this was a tutorial or something (hopefully I'll make one) but I of course like everyone else want a roof rack but don't want to spend a lot to get one. Also like many people I unfortunately can't MIG weld and won't be learning anytime soon.

My question is, from a strength standpoint, would It be possible to make a roof rack that is bolted together. I know the Prinsu is bolted but say I got some square tubing and figured out a way to bolt it together. Would it be strong enough to support the occasional 150 lbs if I used Grade 8 or some other nice bolts?

 

[morphious]

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/2054371-post1.html

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/2060191-post1.html

 

[4RunAmok]

It all depends on how your assembly takes place. Some joint designs will be stronger than others.

I have the Prinsu on a 4th Gen, as does Brian from Goose Gear. During the installation, Brian was walking on top of the roof rack back and forth. I'd guess him at 175-185 pounds. A single crossbar supported him without a problem.

The method you choose to support the crossbars to the side bars in combination with the mounting to the roof is going to decide your load limits.

Proper materials can cost you a pretty penny too. 80-20.net sells material similar to the Prinsu, but it's not cheap. Time and parts and you might spend as much as just purchasing a Prinsu. One-off items just aren't cost-efficient, especially if you have to have someone fab something for you.

If you want to save 10% on a Prinsu, use the coupon code "T4R4-10", which will last until he sells 5 of them. Even without the 10% off, this rack is way less expensive than Frontrunner, the closest thing to an all-aluminum low-profile rack like the Prinsu.

 

[T4RNightHawk]

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/2054371-post1.html

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/2060191-post1.html

I love the look and price but how strong do you think that is? Problem is my dad needs to be able to put the occasional heavy thing up there. For example one time he destroyed the top of my spoiler putting a barn wood tabletop he made on my roof rack. He doesn't really understand that stuff can only hold a certain amount :rofl:.

 

[morphious]

Honestly put about 300-350 pounds up there for a camping trip that was about 300 miles round trip.

 

[T4RNightHawk]

Honestly put about 300-350 pounds up there for a camping trip that was about 300 miles round trip.

Wow thats awesome. I might have to try that.