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Roof rack, which Roof Rack?

Posted: 17 Nov 2020 11:06
by Kyle
Hi all,

I'm in the market for a new roof rack but I'm rather frustrated with lack of options readily available.

The only brand I can actually view and check out before purchasing is Front Runner and while there is nothing wrong with it, I hate the idea or feeling like I am forced to purchase it purely due to stock availability or not having another version within various 4x4 stores or centers to compare it too.

As mentioned I like the Front Runner version and how modular it is along with all the available accessories for it. Only negative point found regarding FR was that the slats run across the vehicle instead of being parallel with it, potentially causing more drag and noise.

What I would like to understand is:

- What are the top three models across brands which I should consider? (I'm looking for aluminum, something lightweight)
- where should I go in the Western Cape to get decent service / fitment?
- What is your personal experience with your roof rack?

Items which we intend on fitting to the roof are:

- 2 Jerry cans (40 KG) - only on longer trips
- Awning (12 KG) - during normal camping trips
- Ground tent (12 kg) - during normal camping trips
- Chairs (+- 11KG) - during normal camping trips

Based on a roof rack being +- 35 - 40KG, we are within 10kg of manufacturing spec (Roof weight safety rating)

Kyle

Re: Roof rack, which Roof Rack?

Posted: 17 Nov 2020 12:02
by ricster
I have an African Outback on my Patrol, never had any grief with it, and has carried some serious loads ( wife wants everything on a trip....haha). I was lucky to get it with the Patrol, so not sure where one can get and if stock is available.

https://www.bigcountry.co.za/product/ro ... atrol-y61/

Re: Roof rack, which Roof Rack?

Posted: 17 Nov 2020 13:46
by Peter Connan
I also have an African Outback. I think it is stronger than the Front Runner, and although the slats run down the length, I doubt that it makes any difference to wind drag as it has cross-members to carry the load.

Another brand with a good name is Hannibal.

No idea where to get them though.

Re: Roof rack, which Roof Rack?

Posted: 17 Nov 2020 14:23
by Rhett
I third the African Outback, very strong roof rack. Not sure what price difference there is though between FR and AO..

Re: Roof rack, which Roof Rack?

Posted: 17 Nov 2020 15:24
by Oetie
I fourth the African Outback, got it second hand through Tinus and made some magic with Duram 88 to paint it black.

If you do not mind a second hand one, they pop up from time to time, else contact Tinus, he is Mr Know-all on who has what to sell.
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Re: Roof rack, which Roof Rack?

Posted: 17 Nov 2020 15:56
by Kyle
Thanks all, I've mailed big country to see if they have stock and can send one down to the Safari Center here in N1 city.

Seems like you guys prefer this over FR. Pricing is neither here nor there (actually R300 cheaper) and their roof rack is 8 kg lighter than Front runner too (20% which is huge). They also powder coat the new ones black which I prefer over the silver "steel looking" ones I've seen from them.

Will keep you guys posted

Re: Roof rack, which Roof Rack?

Posted: 18 Nov 2020 05:19
by Peter Connan
Kyle, just get it without the top rail from the outset.

Top rails are just useless and limit what you can carry without giving any usable security in off-road applications, as anything not tied down securely will bounce over the rim anyway.

Re: Roof rack, which Roof Rack?

Posted: 18 Nov 2020 07:44
by Spike
I also have an African Outback rack, bought second hand. Very solid.

Re: Roof rack, which Roof Rack?

Posted: 18 Nov 2020 12:11
by Kagiso II
6th one- Also African Outback - Ex a Landrammel 110, it is longer than Y60's roof but on my looooong Outreach trips and the full size Bundutop tent, I need that extra space

Re: Roof rack, which Roof Rack?

Posted: 18 Nov 2020 15:44
by Kyle
So after a lot of research and all of your awesome recommendations, I have gone with African Outback and here's why.

- Not one seriously bad review
- Any Negative feedback resulted in a replacement or repaint / re-spray at R0 cost: Based on various forums
- Weight of rack is the lightest and the widest (more surface area)
- They can customize it for you at a additional fee (Finishing, rails etc.)
- Compatible with generic accessories
- I prefer the vertical slats running with the vehicle as apposed to horizontally across the wind

Summary of research below:
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Links where to buy

Front Runner: https://www.frontrunneroutfitters.com/en/za/
African outback: https://www.bigcountry.co.za/
Hannibal: http://www.hannibal.co.za/

Did you know: Patrol model depending (refer SUV / Wagon), you should not exceed 100 - 120 kg, inclusive of the weight of your roof rack while driving / Dynamic roof weight limit...

I'm purchasing the rack through Safari N1 Center. They are charging me R650 for delivery and R647 for fitment, total cost of R13 600 inclusive

Only negative is waiting 5 weeks for it now