Handling Characteristics of JK with RTT?

[Rynomar]

So you guys have gotten me thinking about the RTT setup and I wanted to see what your impressions are of the handling characteristics of the JK with a RTT. I have been really pleased with my JK and the AEV suspension, but I know adding 150-200lbs to the roof is going to change things a bit. Is it not that big of a deal? How does it feel offroad?

Also, what kind of roof racks are you guys using to attach them? I have been looking at getting the AEV rack when it comes out, but I am becoming more interested in other options.

Thanks!

 

[Revelstoker]

To be absolutely honest...I don't even know that it's there other than when I go to fill up as my fuel consumption has increased but not substantially. I have a Gobi for my rack and it is virtually silent and incredibly solid with very little flex. My RTT weighs in at 150lbs. I personally don't feel that it affects the performance/handling of the JK or it could be that I'm just so used to the tent being on top that I don't notice. I'm taking the RTT off mid-October so I'll update if things have changed.

 

[just eric]

Am I the only one that worries about the JK's maximum payload capacity? It is something I'm almost fixated on and one reason I'm thinking about dumping my Rubi. A roof top tent is something I've always wanted and would come in very handy but at almost 20% of payload, can't bring myself to do it.

 

[Septu]

As for the RTT, can't help you. Rack wise, for me it's a toss up between a Globi (want a full time rack), and a MRBP (use the HT 90% of the time - so no rack w/ ST isn't really an issue). Still can't decide, however am leaning towards the Globi...

As for the capacity... my 07 was over 5k lbs and only had tires and a winch/front bumper. I fully expect my 12 JKUR to be close (if not over) to 6k lbs after having bumpers F/R, rack, winch, rock sliders, and 35s. And honestly, am not worried in the least about it.

 

[Deleted member 48574]

I don't really notice it. It doesn't feel unstable to me at all -- basically everything Revelstoker said is spot on. The only difference I would add is that I don't use a Gobi but instead have a home made rack.

Jeep should be good for about 1000 pounds at least, and the RTT that I have only weighs about 100 lbs. To be honest I'm hard pressed to fit the other 900 pounds inside the jeep (Okay, so even erring on 800 pounds if you count the rack and bumper). My point is volume becomes an issue before weight does.

If you think about it, that 800 lbs is 26 jerry cans of Gas.

But yes back to the OP -- RTT = works fine on a JK. One thing to keep in mind is to be cautious of what rack you get. For instance, both my rack and the Gobi rack sit VERY closely to the roof. A Kargo Master Kongo Cage would sit a few inches higher which could make a bit of a difference.

Cheers
Craig

 

[jaxs1984]

I don't know anybody that has a JK with a roof rack that is concerned about weight. Most of them had 07+ JKUR with min. 3.5 lift 35' tires and all the standard issue'd expo "stuff" and no one seemed to care. I even joked that one guy had a hot tub on top They also all had Gobi racks.

I currently have an 09 JKR and leaning towards the Gobi myself. I have 2.5' and 33' with full AEV stuff. I'll probably put another 150 lbs on-top and not be concerned.

I personally would be concerned with a track mount rack that attaches to the hard top and NOT the frame.

 

[Deleted member 48574]

Good point, Jax. The hard top is not strong enough for an RTT (or, in my opinion - and Chrysler's any cargo basket). Some have drilled holes through the hardtop and mounted to the roll bar which would be good enough, but ideal racks should tie into the frame.

 

[Septu]

Good point, Jax. The hard top is not strong enough for an RTT (or, in my opinion - and Chrysler's any cargo basket). Some have drilled holes through the hardtop and mounted to the roll bar which would be good enough, but ideal racks should tie into the frame.

Depends on what you're putting on it. If it's a RTT, then certainly. However those who are just using the rack for skies, snowboards, and whatnot, only attaching to the HT will be fine. But then if you're still going to spend 800/900 (or more) why not just get a quality full rack to begin with.

 

[SulVento]

I can't comment on the RTT directly (on my "to get list"), but I have loaded down my Gobi rack with 3 large Pelican boxes full of gear and other miscellaneous gear. It was DEFINITELY in excess of 150lbs up there and it rode just fine for 8 hours on the highway and then 5 days on back roads in the mountains and then 8 hours back.

Rack-wise, I struggled for a long time on what to get but finally bit the bullet on the Gobi. Expensive rack but WELL WORTH IT. I am _so_ glad I went that route.

Just my $.02

 

[Rynomar]

Great information. I know adding the weight up high will make some difference, but I am happy to hear that it has not been that big of a deal. Those are good thoughts on the mounting style of the rack making a big difference as well. I really think I would prefer a RTT on a trailer eventually, but it is good to hear that the JK's handle them just fine.

 

[JIMBO]

:sombrero: The JKU will handle most topside weights/w springs and shocks-

The AEV "Off Camber" MBRP rack can take up to 350 lbs mobile and over 750 static-

Off-road you have to be aware of off-camber climbs/hills-

:costumed-smiley-007:wings: JIMBO

 

[Deleted member 48574]

Jumbo,

Where did you get that tire cover? It's hilarious and awesome!

As for the MBRP -- I think that is one of the more elegant solutions but it doesn't unfortunately work with 2011 and new models. The side windows are much wider and as such where the MbRP goes through fiberglass on the 2010, it would be hitting glass on the 2011+.

Regards
Craig

 

[Deleted member 48574]

Depends on what you're putting on it. If it's a RTT, then certainly. However those who are just using the rack for skies, snowboards, and whatnot, only attaching to the HT will be fine. But then if you're still going to spend 800/900 (or more) why not just get a quality full rack to begin with.

I'm sure the hard top is Ok to take lighter objects, but I was under the impression that Chrysler says it'll void the warranty?

Granted you may never develop cracks in the fiberglass with just a set if skis!

Then again you alternator might go and the dealership might say 'nope. Warranty voided! Roof rack!"

(Of course I say that tongue in cheek; most dealers are not like that)

 

[Septu]

Jumbo,

Where did you get that tire cover? It's hilarious and awesome!

As for the MBRP -- I think that is one of the more elegant solutions but it doesn't unfortunately work with 2011 and new models. The side windows are much wider and as such where the MbRP goes through fiberglass on the 2010, it would be hitting glass on the 2011+.

Regards
Craig

I believe it was 2010 and up. However they apparently have a new rack out for those models.

 

[WagoneerSX4]

If I can run an RTT on the roof of my lifted SX4 I think a jeep will handle it just fine. Mine weighs in at 115lbs, and I do notice when it's up there, but not so much to say it's at risk of flipping during an emergency maneuver. Just a tad more bodyroll. My OEM crossbars aren't exactly quiet on their own so I can't say I even notice anymore wind noise either.