Which Roof Rack is Right For You?
When going on adventures, space is almost always at a premium. One easy way to add more cargo-carrying ability is to install a roof rack system. Roof racks come in a variety of shapes and sizes with countless features and abilities. Here we’ll look at some of the available roof rack styles and which one might be best for your vehicle.
Attaching A Roof Rack
To install a roof rack, you’ll first need a way to attach it. Some racks clamp to a vehicle’s rain gutters, and some have pre-drilled holes for a rack to attach. Other vehicles have rails where cross bars can be installed. Determining how to attach a rack to your rig should be step number one. Many manufacturers, including Ironman 4x4, offer feet kits for different vehicles to attach your roof rack for a custom fit.
Steel vs. Aluminum Alloy
Most racks are made of either steel or aluminum alloy. Both have pros and cons. Steel is heavy, but very stout and usually less expensive than aluminum alloy. Aluminum alloy is lightweight and won’t count against your gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) as much. It also helps to keep roof weight lower for a better center of gravity.
Flat Racks
Arguably, flat racks offer the most versatility because they’re not constrained by any railing or sides. Think of it as a rack without borders. Plus, they have a sleek, low profile for a lower center of gravity. Whether you’re strapping down a rooftop tent or fuel cans; cargo boxes or traction boards, Ironman 4x4’s Flat Top Roof Rack offerings are powder coated and available to suit a variety of vehicle manufacturers including Jeep, Lexus, and Toyota. (A universal version is also available.) They are made of aluminum alloy construction and come in a 6-ft length.
Roof Rack Baskets
The most popular style of roof rack on the market is the basket. Available in a wide array of sizes to fit various vehicles, Roof Rack Baskets have a sturdy railing around the rack’s perimeter. This helps to keep cargo inside the rack’s space. Plus, the railings allow you to mount other accessories, such as lights, awnings, or other add-ons. Ironman 4x4 offers its Roof Rack Baskets in 4.6-ft, 6-ft, and 7.2-ft sizes and in both aluminum alloy and steel construction. Additionally, Roof Rack Baskets can be universally fitted to Jeep, Lexus, and Toyota vehicles.
Trade Roof Racks
Trade Roof Racks are mostly flat but have durable railings only on the sides. These are excellent choices for people in the trades who may be carrying items like lumber, pipes, or ladders. However, they can also be great for adventurers hauling canoes or kayaks. These aluminum alloy racks come in 4.6-ft and 7.2-ft versions for Lexus and Toyota vehicles as well as a universal fitment.
Hybrid Flat Top Roof Racks
For people looking for a hybrid flat rack and roof basket, Hybrid Roof Racks are just the ticket. These racks can still house a rooftop tent, but the ¾” steel front railing allows secure storage of everything from equipment cases to firewood, and the ability to clamp on auxiliary lights. These racks fit Lexus and Toyota vehicles; there is also a universal version.
Rack It Up
Whether you’re stowing a spare tire, mounting a rooftop tent, or simply hauling firewood, roof racks are undeniably versatile accessories for any truck, SUV, or crossover. So, whether you’re wheeling for the weekend, or traveling across the continent, a roof rack is a very valuable accessory.