Modular Roof Rack Build

[MStudt]

I decided to go ahead and start the roof rack today. I had a lot of other things going on as well. So I didn't get nearly as much done as I thought I would have. It's still at start though. I'm going to start with a 3/4 rack, and then have an add-on section to convert it to a full length rack.

Off with the Yakima.

Next was cutting some foam down to size.

The foam needs to be trimmed to huge the roof line.

This is how you get a roof contour.

That's it for today. I should have some more time tomorrow to get some more done.

 

[volkinator]

Absolutely interested in seeing where this is going! I'd love to build my own somehow. I did one for my silverado and it worked really well. Just trying to figure out what I want, as well as keep the weight down! Do you have ideas for the final outcome?

 

[MStudt]

Absolutely interested in seeing where this is going! I'd love to build my own somehow. I did one for my silverado and it worked really well. Just trying to figure out what I want, as well as keep the weight down! Do you have ideas for the final outcome?

The 3/4 racks are going to be a platform style. It'll have a small wind fairing on the front to help with wind noise. The cross bars are going to be a mixture of 1x1 and 1x2 extruded aluminum t-slot. The t-slot will give you endless mounting options. The platform will work with roof top tents, tires, Rotopax, and so on.

The add-on front section will give a raised lip to allow for a larger wind fairing. The raised lip will also allow for an optional lightbar. I'm still trying to decided on mild steel or 5051 aluminum for the sides. The rack isn't going to be heavy even with steel, and aluminum is pricey. These are going to be for sale, and hopefully by the end of September.

 

[volkinator]

The 3/4 racks are going to be a platform form style. I'll have a small wind fairing on the front to help with wind noise. The cross bar are going to be a mixture of 1x1 and 1x2 extruded aluminum t-slot. The t-slot will give you endless mounting options. The platform will work with roof top tents, tires, Rotopax, and so on.

The add-on front section will give a raised lip to allow for a larger wind fairing. The raised lip will also allow for an optional lightbar. I'm still trying to decided on mild steel or 5051 aluminum for the sides. The rack isn't going to be heavy even with steel, and aluminum is pricey. These are going to be for sale, and hopefully by the end of September.

Can't Wait!! Sub'd for sure!

 

[GSPRunner]

Can't wait to see the finished product. I need a full length rack.

 

[yota_addict]

How will it mount? Using existing rails or Yakima style roof mounts? Can't wait to see it. Definitely looking for nice low profile.

Saw this little platform on a Tacoma the other day and liked how close to the roof just needs some sides.

 

[2nd Chance]

Subscribed

 

[MStudt]

How will it mount? Using existing rails or Yakima style roof mounts? Can't wait to see it. Definitely looking for nice low profile.

Saw this little platform on a Tacoma the other day and liked how close to the roof just needs some sides.

I think it's safe to say that it'll be similar to this, but still different. Mine will be tied into the existing rails by using t-slot nuts. I think mine will hug the roof more than the one you posted. The goal is to get this as low as I can without contacting the factory rails, or the roof. I think I'll offer textured powder coating as an option too.

 

[MattJakobs]

Can't wait to see where this goes. :hungry:

 

[Bandit Runner]

Awesome! I love a good design and fabrication thread.

 

[BrianSD_42]

Cant wait to see the finished product.

Any chance for an Aluminum rack?

Ive been hoping for a lightweight affordable rack for some time now.

 

[MStudt]

Cant wait to see the finished product.

Any chance for an Aluminum rack?

Ive been hoping for a lightweight affordable rack for some time now.

Yep. I'm planning on one made from 5051. Once it's laid I'll be able to have it cut from anything.

 

[4-Ripcord]

Yep. I'm planning on one made from 5051. Once it's layout I'll be able to have it cut from anything.

ooh fancy. Sub'd

 

[Dephcon]

I have been saving for a Whitson, but VERY interested in how this comes together. Sub'd

 

[4Running Daily]

Yep. I'm planning on one made from 5051. Once it's layout I'll be able to have it cut from anything.

:drool: Can't wait

 

[Bigger_Is_Better]

OK, we're ready for an update!!

 

[Unner]

So is this rack going to look more like a Whitson rack or less of a basket and just a flat rack?

Any idea what the pricing on these will be?

I've been wanting to get a rack for a while now and I was on the waiting list of a Whitson, but he's run into some issues and had to cancel all orders unfortunately.

Can't wait to see more!

 

[CentralFL4Runner]

Anyone know what happened with WMW? I love the look of his, and would be extremely interested if yours looked similar both in design and price. The nice thing about him, was he was in Florida. Was almost cheaper to go pick it up a couple hours north rather than have it shipped.

 

[Twan]

The only thing I want is a rack exactly like Whitson made. If you made a replica, I'd scrounge my pennies for one down the road.

 

[MStudt]

The only thing I want is a rack exactly like Whitson made. If you made a replica, I'd scrounge my pennies for one down the road.

If you want a Whitson then get a Whitson. I'm not into copying another members design.