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Sturdiness of Roof Rack

Old 05-16-2015, 12:08 PM
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Default Sturdiness of Roof Rack

Ok, I have this idea floating around in my head for a modular style roof rack based on something similar to another forum members rack (https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f58/li...f-rack-201551/). Parts and pieces could be added or removed based on the immediate needs. One of those needs for me would be a roof mounted rod rack to get my surf rods up in the air similar to the one below. If I were to use 8 of the gutter mount roof rack tabs would a roof rack be stout enough to hold 300lbs? I definitely do not want to tear anything up when I climb up there.
Attached Thumbnails Sturdiness of Roof Rack-shark-rack.jpg  
Old 05-17-2015, 07:49 AM
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If there were 8 gutter mounts, I think that would be enough to hold 300 pounds. Each set of Yakima or Thule bars and mounts are rated at about 165 pounds so that's 330 pounds for 8 gutter mounts.

I have a roof top tent and awning mounted on top of my XJ, the tent and awning together are 135 pounds. I use 8 gutter mounts and 4 bars under the tent. With two people in the tent it is still very sturdy.
Old 05-17-2015, 09:44 AM
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Originally Posted by aflemke
If there were 8 gutter mounts, I think that would be enough to hold 300 pounds. Each set of Yakima or Thule bars and mounts are rated at about 165 pounds so that's 330 pounds for 8 gutter mounts.

I have a roof top tent and awning mounted on top of my XJ, the tent and awning together are 135 pounds. I use 8 gutter mounts and 4 bars under the tent. With two people in the tent it is still very sturdy.


Awesome! I appreciate it.
Old 05-17-2015, 10:58 AM
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I saw a rack posted here one time that about 8 on each side holding it on. The mounts looked to be very HD ones and darned close to being solid on the rail.
Old 05-17-2015, 12:56 PM
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I only have 4 gutter mounts, always planned on adding 2 more but haven't got around to it. I've had at least 500 pounds in it. Nothing bent or broken. Mounts are around 3 inches wide.
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Old 05-17-2015, 02:52 PM
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Those must be some wicked long loading ramps, LOL
Old 05-17-2015, 03:26 PM
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Use 3 3 inch wide mounts per side. If that wont support the weight you are putting up there it shouldnt be there to make it that top heavy anyway
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