Rago Fab Hardware Problems

So I just got some Rago molle panels for the rear windows from a friend. The thing is when you try and loosen the bolt on the outside of the spacer to remove the molle panels, the whole spacer loosens from the threaded rod on the backside (in the 4Runner). So when we were un-installing these from his 4Runner, the threaded rod got stuck in the 4Runner and had to be taken out with vice grips. I can see constantly threading and un-threading (in order to mount accessories) can become a problem over time.


After looking at the other molle panels in detail on the market; Finn Fab, Victory 4x4, TSO, Etc. - they all use a better design than Rago fab. Instead of threaded rods into a spacer, they all use one bolt and one spacer. In my opinion, this is a better design. Not sure why Rago is still using this faulty design.


Has anyone experienced this?


If I was looking at buying brand new, I would go with another company that uses a better design; Finn Fab, Victory, TSO. All of those panels use a better hardware system. I would steer clear of Rago.

 

Yeah, the same thing happened to us. No Bueno - went with Finn Fab Power Grid panels after this.

 

red loctite the part you want to stay threaded?

 

Yeah I guess that would work, shouldn't have to though in my opinion. Rago has had these out for a couple of years now, you think they would've made changes.

 

I've heard nothing but good things about Finn Fab.

 

Why would you need to constantly unthread it though ? I haven’t taken mine off at all to mount my stuff to them. And 90% sure that was the intention rago had was a one and done install that you can add to it at any point. Even with my bolt on equipment (quick fists, fire mount etc) I was easily able to get a small wrench or flex head wrench behind the panel to hold a nut.

 

I guess they treat their 4runner accessories/updates the same way Toyota does.

 

Nah, watch their video of the molle panel install again. They say in it that you may have to remove the panels in order to install things. Like you, I've done workarounds, but it hasn't always been easy. Of course, now that I've got the shelf, the panels aren't coming off anytime soon.

 

I like Rago's stuff, but yeah, their hardware's kind of meh. I didn't replace the spacers, the washers, or the big bolt for the very top, but I did replace all of the other hardware with standard hex head bolts. I don't like the button head bolt stuff.

 

I got the shelf too. I just these amazing bungees and coated wire thingies, as well other non bolt on fasteners.

 

@Fltslr
Same
I also use velcro molle backings

 

That's a good idea thanks!

 

“coated wire thingies,” are the best.

 

I know this thread is old but i have bought the rago molle panels for 5gen 4r and so one side complete with minimal issues and the other side is going to become a nightmare. The spacer screw refuses to screw into its intended hole. Won’t budge. I don’t wanna force and make things worse. Anyone have any advice bc I’m about ready to break down pay Toyota $100,000,000.00 to finish this off for me. Could use some guidance pls

 

Welcome from Arizona!
You might need to use a thread chaser from a tap and die set.

 

That would be something, having to go thru all that for it to work when it was supposed to work from the get go. Probably should have done more research before buying rago brand. Thanks for responding

 

Don't give up. Someone you know probably has the tool you need. I had to fiddle a bit with my panels (RAGO)

 

Oh no, not giving up. I’m gonna chase down a thread chaser. By any chance do you know what size is needed?

 

I am going to guess it is 8 x 1.25. I think the bottom front and rear cargo are 6 x 1.00, I am assuming this is the upper coat hook you are having an issue with?

 

Hey was messing around out there and here’s the real problem, two different parts! Thank you Rago!

 

So we can see the bad one in the left is shorter, the hex head on the end is a larger size than the right and the threads are very different. Gd I’m unhappy and they better expedite another asap

 

What did Rago say?

 

I don’t expect a response today, Sunday. As they only operate Monday-Fri. The entire experience has been disappointing ..having to go online and replay/watch YouTube vids on this. Is it that hard to throw an instruction pamphlet in your products? I paid a lot for this set up and expected more from them

 

I would expect that them seeing the photo in post #20 would warrant an overnighted replacement.

 

The one on the right side is correct

 

It's been a while since I installed my Rago's, but I had no issues. I think I did loctite the threads between the spacer and little threaded rod. But no issues since.

 

No issues bc you were sent the correct hardware to set it up, gotcha. I was not that lucky and still waiting for their response.