[ScottPA]

We just purchased our newest Jeep and are looking to install a roof rack to carry kayaks, skis, etc. Thule guarantees (through fit guide and answered email) their 300 feet with 58" load bars will work up to 165 pounds. The problem is, in the Jeep's owners' manual, Jeep will not guarantee that the Freedom top can reliably accommodate any extra weight with the exception of elements (rain, snow, mud).

I have used Thule in the past and am confident in their guarantee. I would like to know if there are any owners of the new Freedom tops with a roof rack and your personal experiences with either Thule or any other roof racks which may be available.

I have seen the expedition style racks but am not sure we need something that intensive or pricey.

 

[NotHusband'sJK]

Scott,
Most racks place the weight on the outside "feet" of the rack, which would be secured over the rollbars. Shouldn't be an issue because you're not putting the weight directly on the hard top shell.

Does that help?

NotHusband'sJK

 

[ScottPA]

Does anyone have experience with KargoMaster Congo Cage Racks on any other Jeep models? I talked with them and they plan to have an updated rack for the JK's in six to eight weeks.

 

[steepcreekfreak]

First post!!! New member here.

I have a KJ but I am saving for a new JK rubicon 4dr next year

If you looking for a sturdy roof rack for kayaks try here

index

They are kayakers making racks for kayakers!! super beefy

Or JC whitney has a whole list of racks. I have never seen one from them only tygartrivers

 

[ScottPA]

Hi, thanks for the links. I had not seen the Tygart River ones.

After some research I have found several as well. Offroadlogic has one out now but it is around $1900. That's a bit pricey. Garvin Industries has one we are interested in. It's under a grand but seems to be pretty good quality from reading some past reviews. There are a few others; Bestop, Rugged Ridge, Warrior, etc. which either don't make them for the JK's (yet) or, in the case of warrior, require a lot of drilling into the body of the jeep. Kargomaster replied to me saying they hope to have a 4 door version in 6 to 8 weeks. This was a couple of weeks ago. We'll see.

At any rate, we (I) hope to make a decision soon. I'm getting pretty tired of driving the wife's subaru around when I need to take the Kayak.

 

[jeepfanatic]

quality and durable jeep roof racks is really a must, especially if you have extra luggages, kayaks and others. well, good luck.. hope you'll able to decide the best roof rack for your ride. I guess the money you have to spend would be a factor in choosing which one.

 

[meat]

We just purchased our newest Jeep and are looking to install a roof rack to carry kayaks, skis, etc. Thule guarantees (through fit guide and answered email) their 300 feet with 58" load bars will work up to 165 pounds. The problem is, in the Jeep's owners' manual, Jeep will not guarantee that the Freedom top can reliably accommodate any extra weight with the exception of elements (rain, snow, mud).

I have used Thule in the past and am confident in their guarantee. I would like to know if there are any owners of the new Freedom tops with a roof rack and your personal experiences with either Thule or any other roof racks which may be available.

Aluminum extrusion available on ebay.

Thule 58" bars & kayak racks and my two heaviest yaks: Perception Eclipse 17 (60lbs), Wilderness Systems 16' (65lbs). Use this almost every weekend, no creaks, cracks or bowing.

Your pal,
Meat.

 

[Jeepish]

kayak racks

How are those holding up? What are they?

 

[meat]

How are those holding up? What are they?

They held up great. I sold the Wrangler (got a Hemi Commander). I'm getting another Wrangler and will be doing the same thing.

Your pal,
Meat.

 

[Jeepish]

hardtop racks

Well what are they and how do I get them? Drilling into the hard top was required, right? Did you use spacers? Whats going on around here?

 

[meat]

Well what are they and how do I get them? Drilling into the hard top was required, right? Did you use spacers? Whats going on around here?

They're just aluminum extrusion bars I got off ebay, mounted directly to the roof. Drilled holes, siliconed the holes and then just bought the Thule stuff at a rack shop.

Any company that installs racks can do exactly the same thing. In my area, Rack N Road is the most reputable, and I'll let them do the net one. YMMV.

Your pal,
Meat.