zukrider
Explorer
since my expo zuk got totalled, along with the rack i built for it, i am going to build a rack for my SR.
this is in the ideas/prep stage. and i have a few questions. for those of you with racks, are you attached to the actory rails? or replacing the rails to use the roof mounts, which i assume are studs? either way, what are your opinions on its strength/stability/overall functionality?
i will most likely build it from 3/4" or 1" EMT again, with crossbars on 5" centers. my zuk rack was all 3/4" with 5" centers and it held my 265# on one bar with minimal bowing. mounting to othe roof is the biggest question as of yet.
its full time function will be lights, hilift, shovel/axe mount, and sleeping platform storage. the platform will be a plywood base @52x88". it will be 2 pieces, together with a piano hinge. it will go on the rack hinge down, and tie in with barrel bolts so as to be quick/cheap/easy. i didnt get to the platform portion with the zuk, but im convinced this system will keep it on and prevent movement, even in wind(crossing fingers). when not in use, it will fold up, and store under the rack, full time. easy deployment. it is based on an REI half dome 2 backpacking tent. i plan to also get a good 4 season 3 person tent in the future, and will build a platform for it accordingly.
please chime in with any info and suggestions you have, and thanx for looking. ill start getting measurements and drawings. pics as they come available.
joe
this is in the ideas/prep stage. and i have a few questions. for those of you with racks, are you attached to the actory rails? or replacing the rails to use the roof mounts, which i assume are studs? either way, what are your opinions on its strength/stability/overall functionality?
i will most likely build it from 3/4" or 1" EMT again, with crossbars on 5" centers. my zuk rack was all 3/4" with 5" centers and it held my 265# on one bar with minimal bowing. mounting to othe roof is the biggest question as of yet.
its full time function will be lights, hilift, shovel/axe mount, and sleeping platform storage. the platform will be a plywood base @52x88". it will be 2 pieces, together with a piano hinge. it will go on the rack hinge down, and tie in with barrel bolts so as to be quick/cheap/easy. i didnt get to the platform portion with the zuk, but im convinced this system will keep it on and prevent movement, even in wind(crossing fingers). when not in use, it will fold up, and store under the rack, full time. easy deployment. it is based on an REI half dome 2 backpacking tent. i plan to also get a good 4 season 3 person tent in the future, and will build a platform for it accordingly.
please chime in with any info and suggestions you have, and thanx for looking. ill start getting measurements and drawings. pics as they come available.
joe