Roof Rack Options

Im starting to plan out a roof rack to fit my needs. I find myself liking the "modular" t-slot styles due to the flexibility of configuration. The Gobi looks awesome, just don't think it's for me. Any brands that everyone does or doesn't like. I've looked at the Victory, Prinsu, Front Runner, SSO, and UpTOP overland? I can't tell what makes the Uptop alpha so much more expensive than the Bravo???

Right now I'm planning an awning, rifle case for gear, traction boards and possibly a hi lift and portable water.

 

Alex:
I just joined... in same predicament you are in. One piece racks are charging $400 to ship so you are in the $2K range. I have found Victory to be good looking. Check out Wescott Designs https://westcottdesigns.net/product/toyota-4runner-5th-gen-modular-roof-rack/ Most versatile I have seen and they include a full floor panel insert option ($455) for an all-in $1354. Only thing I don't like about this brand is not enough side cutouts--mostly for looks and not function. I do like the ability to lower the cross bars. Their bottle opener thing is cool but rig has other leverage points (seat belt...)

A review on the rack: https://trail4runner.com/2021/01/19...lar-roof-rack-review-install-5th-gen-4runner/

I have reached out to Victory to see if:

1- make their own roof panel inserts-on their site, Caliraised produces the panels at $109 per panel--Wescott has the entire rack covered as a $455 option landing ~ $1400.

If you add the 4-5 Caliraised panels to the Victory full-length you are about $1400 as well.
https://caliraisedled.com/collectio...raised-led-roof-rack-mounted-molle-gear-panel

2- would they be willing to drill additional holes so I could lower the crossbars to achieve a basket capability

It is between Victory and Wescott for me. Will see how Victory responds to my questions and I will let you know.

Richard

 

To complicate things for you a bit, add the Sherpa Crestone to your list for consideration. Very solid, good looking rack and I’m very pleased with mine.

 

I have a gobi style built by a local fabricator. I love it, but if I had to do it again, I’d probably go front runner

 

Play the long game... get a Gobi. Best 6 months you’ll ever have to wait. At least, that’s what I keep telling myself. Otherwise, I nearly bought a Bravo from upTOP Overland.

 

I believe the Alpha comes with the grab handles and their “adaptive armor panels,” aka facia plates, along the side of the rack to run and harnesses underneath. The Bravo does not.

 

Ditto on the Sherpa. Just installed mine this weekend. Install info in my sig.

 

Another vote for Sherpa, love mine

 

Got the Wescott Design Roof Rack with floor panel inserts. Picked this rack over the others due to the capability of setting up a basket or not. Suspect I will use the flush set up most. Some picks attached and some observations below on the install.
https://westcottdesigns.net/product/toyota-4runner-5th-gen-modular-roof-rack/

- Everything was packaged nicely. Received in the 5-7 week window which was advertised by WD.

- Be careful unpacking as there were a lot of drilled out shavings so have a brush and vacuum at the ready.

- No instructions but a video can be found and it is similar to installing similar racks so lots out there and honestly did not need them. I used 3M Marine grade anti-seize grease for all the bolts.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b28kiq0jNnk

- Removing factory racks: get the right tools for prying. I bought a 5 piece detailer kit from the Zon for like $8. When prying the cap off, place a rigid surface as well as a towel on roof edge to prevent any micro dents when prying. See pic of where the clips are so you are applying pressure in the right spot (lots of vids out there).

- Once factory rack removed, I sealed the area around the plastic tubes as well as the metal standoffs (you get to raise the rack) with 3M 4200 sealant/adhesive. Had to buy the big tube as I could not find the small tube in black. Place the standoffs a couple hours prior to placing rack so they can adhere and not move when rack is placed on it.

- Once assembled, I placed some left over pipe insulation foam on the edges. My wife is not as tall so we had to set on top, then position correctly. Standoffs were pretty secure so it worked out. Will see how the crossbar over the sunroof is when driving. If annoying, I can remove during summer. Going on maiden voyage today so will know more on sound/looks.

- Adding the third set of footers. Mark the rain gutter insert and cut a section out. You will need some snips as there is some metal in the middle that a razor won't cut through. I have some RV butyl seam tape that I may or may not use for all the footers or just the 3M 4200 since I have a lot of it.

- Roof panel inserts. They are awesome, but I am waiting to install until I receive new "drop-in" T nut inserts. Currently, the rack and roof panel insert do not have cut-outs so you have to remove crossbar from rack to install the sliding T nuts. Drop-ins will make this easier and I can still use the original black bolts. This feedback was provided to WD.
https://westcottdesigns.net/product/toyota-4runner-5th-gen-roof-rack-inserts/

- I'll probably add a roof ladder roller on the end to help with big 4x8 sheets/long boards when at Home depot.

Rig is a little dirty from leaning on it, sweat, and anti-seize smudge marks. I will get her cleaned up, add the ditch lights, and swap out sombrero grille with heritage Toyota grille...

Cheers!

Richard