Thoughts on expedition rack.

[Lecoq]

I'm looking for some thoughts, advice or experience on an expedition rack. I'm looking to take the next step on my 4th gen 4Runner in the fall or winter. I need something with a provision for the roof top tent and roof storage.

So far I'm looking at these:
FrontRunner
Really like the design and there's a lot of available accessories for it. I spoke to Front Runner and they're saying that a 4Runner kit should be available in a few months.
http://www.frontrunneroutfitters.co...R-2M-SLIMLINE-II-FULL-FJ-CRUISER-KIT-p71.html

Bajarack
Again, quite versatile and in the same price range as the FrontRunner by the time you add the fitting kit. Not as many accessories tho.
http://www.bajarack.com/exp-rack

Gobi
It's my favorite. Love the design but it lacks the front basket to hold stuff. The price is also quite steep at almost double the 2 other options. I was quoted a bit over $1500 for the rack alone.
http://www.gobitoyota.com/4runner.htm

So, let's hear what you guys have to say about these options.

Thanks in advance.:elkgrin:

 

[CMiller]

I love my Baja Rack. Very stout, well built, and great utility.

 

[daPitbull]

Gobi, you can dance on top of that thing. But seriously, it's an awesome rack, I got mine on a group buy, came with a free ladder and free shipping. Sold the ladder, so all in all it cost me $1000 and change. The other racks charge for shipping so factor that in and your paying about $300 more.

 

[FRBlake]

Actually all the front runner racks and load bar kits include free shipping in the lower 48... and the progress on the 4th gen rack is coming along well. It should be ready very shortly as far as I know.

 

[ebg18t]

I have been very happy with my BajaRack. Had one on my LandRover too.

Another option is whitson metal works.

http://whitsonmetalworks.com/4th_gen/

 

[Lecoq]

Thanks for the other option. Definitely worth considering.

 

[Plannerman]

I have been very happy with my BajaRack. Had one on my LandRover too.

Another option is whitson metal works.

http://whitsonmetalworks.com/4th_gen/

Where are these guys located?

 

[CYi5]

Where are these guys located?

Pretty sure Washington.

 

[ebg18t]

Where are these guys located?

The panhandle of Florida. Keep in mind his racks come unfinished. You need to powdercoat or paint them on arrival.

 

[Lecoq]

Too bad they're so far. If it was in the NW I would've gone and picked it up at the same time as the RTT.

 

[Schattenjager]

Allow me to be the odd ExPo man out here:

I've had a few racks of various build strength. The best overall design was the SD for my Rovers. Not too heavy, fit the odd shaped roof well, and did the job. I also had a full on over-the-topper ladder rack extending over the cab of my Tacoma with a mesh floor the full length and Line-X'd the entire thing. WAY over kill and yes, you and ten friends could dance on it with no problem. I also had a Yakima basket on my last two Cruisers.

As I'm contemplating a rack system for my new Tacoma, I've thought about how I used the rack in the past, and the compromises each represents. While its cool to walk the full length of the truck on a line-x covered mesh floor, it is in no way necessary. Also, a heavier rack automatically reduces the amount of gear you can carry up top since you should allow for the racks weight too.

So, a strong, light weight rack is the best answer, for me anyway. No noticeable change in driving dynamics when unused (vs a heavy rack) and easily able to accomplish many varied tasks are my requisites.

Yakima is likely to get my money again. While not at all ExPo sexy, it is very light weight yet easily handled my RTT, high lift, and four Scepter cans of fuel for the number of years I was in Alaska. It also has a HUGE number of support add ons for canoes, ski's, cargo bags, nets, etc. Add in the fact you can get anything you need for it at REI etc. and the price is very appealing, for me it's a no brainer.

I've learned a lot and wasted a fortune on bits that were overkill because I like that sort of thing. A sexy roof rack is hard to argue against though...

The most over kill roof rack ever - and cost less than a bunch of the boutique brands:

 

[dgbatcheler]

I have the BajaRack on my FJ and it works really well, good solid frame with lots of tie down points. Low profile which was an issue for my CVT RTT on top of the factory rack. Doesn't weigh very much either and still looks good.

 

[JWP58]

Schattenjager, I'm digging that "overkill rack". What size tubing was used?? Maybe you could go with a smaller size (lighter) and achieve the same usefulness without the weight? Or just don't go over the cab with it.

 

[cerutti]

currently i have the full size bajarack on my FJC, but ill be switching it out for the expedition rack to accommodate the RTT

 

[rickashay]

Thanks for the other option. Definitely worth considering.

The roof rack on my 3rd gen was from Whiston Metalworks. It was a piece of art and such a nice rack. FWIW, I've been chatting with Josh about a rack for my LX450. It's still a ways out (fall/winter) but if you'd like he can package both on the same pallet and we could do some combo shipping. I'll PM you my number and we can chat if you'd like.