roof racks and baskets

Peter, I used some Rhino commercial bars and a black mesh basket for years. I never had a problem with it coming loose, but I did have a problem with wind drag / noise and with the rough mesh rubbing against everything (even after using foam bases). In addition, I never felt really comfortable with the flex in the base when loaded to about 50kgs max. (I was using 2 bars at the time) I eventually got a custom steel rack for the Pathfinder made by Sunshade products in Adelaide which incorporated a wind deflector and channels that suited the Rhino "pygme" feet (track mount). The rack is zinc dipped and powdercoated and was cheaper (inclusive of freight) than any ARB / TJM ripoff. The service was outstanding, the quality excellent - I would recommend them to anyone. The price was not far off the cost of a mesh basket and rhino bars / legs. Check out their website at www.roofrack.com.au - better value full steel racks than the majors

Peter

I also faced this question when I was looking for a roof rack. For me the rhino type rack was easy to take down when I am in he city, and to put back when I go bush.
I ended up getting a full rack for two reasons: It was closer to the roof of the truck (making it easier to load and has less wind noise and less drag), and the load rating is better. Now I know that you are not supposed to load too much on the rack, but there are instances when you are going into remote areas that you have to have some more fuel and an extra tyre, and this is not possible with the basket-on-bars.
Note that the above was the choice based on our situation - family of four with limited space inside
Hope this helps

thanks for the replies will check that web site for prices etc

peter

Did you realise that we have run a feature on roof racks and luggage baskets in our Vehicle Setup Feature? Given the feedback you've had about Rhino Rack already you'll be pleased to see all the feature is on Rhino Rack products including pricing and other information worth considering. Go to the Features menu and then Vehicle Setup Feature.

Hi Peter,

Rhino racks are an excellent, proven product and I'm sure there are others if you look/ask around.

In my opinion, your decision about whether to use racks/basket or full roof rack should be based on the load you intend to carry so check the load ratings. Also, remember that rough, corregated conditions will place your equipment under much more strain than bitumen travelling.

Another thing to bare in mind is weight distribution. A good roof rack will have a full length runners either side supporting its weight along the gutter. Effectively this helps distribute the load away from the connecting bracket points only.

With a rack/basket set-up, the weight is spread across the 4 bracket points only. Nothing wrong with this so long as you stay within the load limits. On a club trip a few years ago, one vehicle was set up with the rack/basket option. When we arrived at our destination, the front passenger was unable to open their door because the gutter had collapsed under the (overloaded) load. Apart from requiring a costly repair, they also had to do some serious repacking (and dolling some of their load out) to get home.

:o) Melissa