Factory Roof Racks on 2002 T4R

[MJW]

How sturdy/secure are the factory racks and cross bars? Will they support a couple of surfboards, specifically longboards? More importantly will they pull out of the roof? I imagine the boards put quite a strain on racks at highway speed. I would hate to lose my boards. Sorry if this a duplicate question. I searched the forum and did not see anything. I am new to T4Rs I just purchased a 2002 SR5. Down sizing from a full sized Dodge Pick-up with racks on the bed.

 

[Hepar]

I'm sure they're probably fine with just a couple boards, but I didn't want to risk it. I got a set of thule bars and love them. Ended up getting a wide set of 65" bars and I've loaded them with 6 boards on there with no problems.

 

[maclean216]

The roof rack is sturdy enough to hold surf boards easy. I did a 4400 mile trip with about 150lbs on the roof. It held up fine. The handling of the truck was a little interesting.

I would think it would be better for your boards to spread the load out further, but the stocker will hold.

 

[ALBPM]

The stock roof racks can handle the weight but what you need to be careful of is the amount of lift created by the type of cargo on the racks.

If the rack holds the boards flat they will generate quite a bit of lift at highway speeds which can rip the stock racks off the roof.

If it holds them edges up/down they will be fine.

 

[MJW]

Thanks for the information

Thank you all. I thought they would handle the weight it was the wind lift I was worried about. Nice to know my thinking was in the ball park. Looks like I am shopping for aftermarket roof racks.

 

[ALBPM]

I have two, 15 ft fiberglass Sea Touring Kayaks and bought a seperate Yakima Rack held on by Q clips which I mount in front of the Stock Rack.
I did not want to risk ripping the Stock rack off traveling at highway speeds with the Kayaks.

Not the best pic but I got my yakima back when I had a 93' Runner.