wrestler74354

Hey there Cherokeeforum, long time listener first time caller... I have a question pertaining to the use of bed frame rails for a roof rack I've thought up. I'm a landlord and over the years have amassed a wonderful amount of bed frames. It's a fairly simple design and I think they will be light enough, has anyone ever tried to do this or is there a reason people don't do this? All I seem to see are ones made out or square tubing or round conduit. Thanks in advance. Chris

XJwonders

I would think tubing contribute additional strength. But if designed correctly. Angle would do a good job as a building material. Go for it. If it doesn't work out, at least u didn't spend any money on the material. Lol

wrestler74354

My intention is to make 2 rectangles, cut 45 degree angles in corners and weld. Stack on top of eachother, then weld 6" cuts on end. Havent really decided how to bracket to the roof yet, I see alot about guttering brackets. Thanks for the input buddy

XJwonders

That sound like it should be sturdy enough.

U plan to run lights on it?

wcshale

Bed frames are really hard material, a lot, lot, lot, harder than normal angle. Keep plenty of cutting oil or water on your drill bits when drilling, otherwise they should work fine.

Lowrange2

Bed frames are made out of horrible cheap metal.

You see people make roof racks out of rectangular tubing and conduit because it's dirt cheap and significantly stronger than a bed frame.

Plus, it's usually looks incredibly tacky.

Go for it. Surprise me.

XJwonders

To some people, u can't argue with them about it cause it's free. Lol

Lowrange2

This guy could give him some pointers, I'd bet.

https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f58/be...f-rack-133503/

XJwonders

Indeed yes

wrestler74354

If it doesn't turn out, it's not a big deal. I'll just throw it on the scrap trailer next month. The aesthetics of the rack aren't a big deal at all. I'd just like it to be sturdy enough to throw a spare up there. A tenant just traded me a welder for a month of rent so I'm itching to use it. I wish someone would pay me in tires... lol.

wrestler74354

I don't think I'll be putting lights on it, I am planning on doing bumpers as well as rails... depends on how my venture into the simple roof rack goes.

wrestler74354

Lol, I just plan on using the metal, I'm not just gonna weld a bed frame to my Jeep. Hats off to this guy though, full on gorilla style.

PocketsEmpty

JcrOffroad makes brackets for mounting homemade roof racks. Check 'em out

Lowrange2

He's using a bed frame for a roof rack. You think he's going to want to spend money on brackets? lol

XJwonders

Maybe one of his residents have gutter mounts for him