So I'm looking to replace the ski rack that came on my XJ with a roof basket that covers the whole roof.
Where/what brands should I start with? Should I consider building my own on top of the ski rack?

 

Depends on how crafty you are. There are allot of custom builds out there if you can weld. There is even ones made from Conduit. If you buy one aftermarket, be prepared to spend over $350 at minimum.

 

Ya I don't think I'm qualified to weld a complete new rack on my own. But I can probably hand mounting a basket to the existing racks, if that's possible. I would just remove the ski holder, but leave the tracks. But if not, I think I will most likely buy a new or used one.

 

Look at Amazon !!

First measure the roof top and figure out what size you want.

They have a ton of them that you can choose from, alot in the $150-200 range.

This one is pretty large and should fit nicely and only $150

 

Thanks for the advice!

 

I got mine on Amazon for $150 and they have extensions you can add for not too much more it's a rola roof rack

 

You don't have the link or more information on that one (make/model), I like it.

 

Here youu go

 

If you don't mind spending the coin, I'd go for the ARB steel rack with mesh floor. Top quality, but heavy. Also JCR makes a nice one from what I hear.

 

Is that the 73 inch or the shorter rack.

 

Made mine out of conduit and u-strapped it to aftermarket rails. I already had the rails. Kind of lame? Yes... Was it only 80 bucks to make and has survive the woods so far? Yes.

 

It's the 49"x73", I haven't gotten the mounting kit yet, cause that is another $300 on top of the $750 for the rack, kinda pricey I know.

 

Sorry it was the only rola roof rack I saw on Amazon and also one of the cheapest. I didn't really think about it and was in a hurry but it is the rola vortex like someone posted. This is my second one sold the first to a friend and got a new one. They come fast, easy to put together, just paint it before putting it on because it will fade fast. I used rustoleum bed liner on mine. Never had a problem really. Just cheap quality rack that looks good and doesn't stick up too much.

 

I would highly recommend nates4x4 roof rack. 50x72", covers entire roof, and pretty dang cheap; size considering.

 

http://www.nates4x4.com/mobile/Product.aspx?id=37511

315$! light tabs, mounting hardware too!