in the market for a roof rack

[BrianElloy]

hi all

i'm shopping around for a slimline roof rack for my D4 (short rails).

i'm looking at either the Rhino backbone / flat rack system, or the Slimline II system by Front Runner

Any comments on either? I heard from ORE that the Rhino system "should" be quieter as the slats run down the length of the car instead of across. sounds good in theory and these guys sell both.

What matters most to me is minimising overall height and minimising wind-noise. They'll get used once every couple of months and I don't plan on removing them in-between..

Any second-hand units going?

cheers chaps

Brian

[carlschmid2002]

I took the standard rails offhand fitted the front runner. I think it is great and I love the table storage underneath. It is always handy to have a table handy.

[ATH]

I'm going through the same exercise at the mo. The Rhino backbone with a trade rack with sides is the favourite so far.
AlanH.

[JamesAdelaide]

I'm shopping too, leaning towards rhino as a lot more local support/accessories.

I'm a tad worried about wind noise also... and I wanted to be able to remove it, but the backbone looks very, very schmicko.

Didn't know about the frontrunner table holder, very cool.

[DiscoJeffster]

Im looking to move from roof rails and two cross bars to a rack. My problem is I use a roof box for long trips which wastes a lot of the rack space. The other issue is track placement to mount the box. The rhino with its length way rails and fixed positions means it's unlikely to work. This leads me to consider the front runner, however being narrower than what I could get with a Rhino, it might not leave much space available. Sigh.

[BMKal]

I also have the FrontRunner full length platform with the under-slung camping table on mine, and have been very happy with it. A very strong rack (I've hit the underside of a concrete building, knocking out some concrete but not damaging the rack beyond scratching the paint). [tonguewink]

This is a huge rack - I can't imagine possibly needing anything larger / wider. [wink11]

If you're worried about the wind noise caused by the rails running across the rack (it really is not bad provided that you have the supplied "wind deflector" installed) - another option is the K9 Expedition roof platform, supplied by either Dolium or Ezi-Awn is well worth looking at. Very similar to the FrontRunner, but with the rails running along the rack rather than across it.

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2017/04/1010.jpg (https://postimg.org/image/64m6d3c0p/)
Eezi-Awn K9 Land Rover LR3-LR4 Roof Racks | Equipt Expedition Outfitters (http://www.equipt1.com/i/roof-racks/land-rover-lr3--lr4)

[cjc_td5]

I'm going through the same exercise at the mo. The Rhino backbone with a trade rack with sides is the favourite so far.
AlanH.
Would be my first choice too if buying new. I have ended up with a good 2nd hand 1.8m Tracklander 4 sided rack, which I am making some supports for now...

[Redback]

I have the long factory rails, with the Rhino legs and platform, been good so far and as for noise, they are all pretty much the same, they are all noisey, and although the backbone thingy may look good, I can see it being noisier than the others, those holes say more noise to me.

For me I'd go either the front Runner or the Rhino platform and legs, with the front Runner having the edge if you choose the table option.

[LandyAndy]

I have a genuine Land Rover Expedition rack,its not what I want so happy to swap etc.I want a 3/4 rack that is flat.This one isn't too noisy,too hard for me to lift items on it with my cactus back,even dropped to entry level.
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2017/04/1002.jpg (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/LandyAndy_2006/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2017-01/IMG_1436_zpshduyt9vb.jpg.html)
Andrew

[LandyAndy]

Photobucket is playing up yet again.
I didn't click on that pick,nor can I get to the pic I want,will try tomorrow.
Andrew

[DiscoMick]

I had a good look at the Front-runner in the Slack's Creek Opposite Lock store and it does look to be an impressive thing. Lot of accessories available for it too.

[ATH]

Gawd! Sometimes I hate this forum.... every time I nearly make a decision about something for the D4 someone comes up with an alternative bit of equipment throwing my tiny mind into turmoil!
Mutter mutter mutter... :-))
AlanH.

[LandyAndy]

Here it is.
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2017/04/984.jpg (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/LandyAndy_2006/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20161007_131634_zpsaolwgfzl.jpg.html)

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2017/04/985.jpg (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/LandyAndy_2006/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20161030_135305_zps4lcob2md.jpg.html)

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2017/04/986.jpg (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/LandyAndy_2006/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-12/20161217_174348_zpsuwkseeuq.jpg.html)

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/ (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/LandyAndy_2006/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-12/20161222_134553_zpsqebccktp.jpg.html)

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2017/04/987.jpg (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/LandyAndy_2006/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-12/20161220_154413_zpsn2sr2wdl.jpg.html)

Andrew

[Strop]

Love that roof rack. Just wish I had a car to go under it.

Laurie

[letherm]

Here it is.
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2017/04/984.jpg (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/LandyAndy_2006/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20161007_131634_zpsaolwgfzl.jpg.html)

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2017/04/985.jpg (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/LandyAndy_2006/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20161030_135305_zps4lcob2md.jpg.html)

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2017/04/986.jpg (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/LandyAndy_2006/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-12/20161217_174348_zpsuwkseeuq.jpg.html)


http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n216/LandyAndy_2006/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-12/20161222_134553_zpsqebccktp.jpg (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/LandyAndy_2006/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-12/20161222_134553_zpsqebccktp.jpg.html)

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2017/04/987.jpg (http://s113.photobucket.com/user/LandyAndy_2006/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-12/20161220_154413_zpsn2sr2wdl.jpg.html)

Andrew

So where does that part shown in post 9 go? [bigrolf]

Martin

[g5k]

+1 on Frontrunner my tires make more noise than the rack, only time I even notice rack is when it is howling and even then it's howling so you accept it. Looks great on the car and is massive and heaps of customisation / ongoing money to spend if you choose too (or the Mrs allows you too).

[LandyAndy]

On your aircon compressor.If your aircon plays up he is the culprit,thats of my Bros D4,done over 200000km.
Andrew

[Sandy]

Gawd! Sometimes I hate this forum.... every time I nearly make a decision about something for the D4 someone comes up with an alternative bit of equipment throwing my tiny mind into turmoil!
Mutter mutter mutter... :-))
AlanH.

I know this is an old thread though all related to D4 roof racks seem to be the same age. I am looking at the long version platform. ARB released their 'base rack' and I am considering the 8-beam model (22.8kg; 212.5cm L x 128.5cm W). Specs indicate it will take more than enough capacity for us. The front runner 'slimline II' looks the part though ~17kg heavier, and I can't find carrying capacity though assume it would be enough. Now, the Rhino-rack 'pioneer platform' is 40kg and seems to only have a described capacity support of only 35kg over and above the rack weight (according to the website).

I carry a 6th spare tyre on rim (~35kg), a storage box (~15kg), a black wolf tent (10kg?), and a set of maxtraxs. Firewood will go on as required.

I have not priced the ARB setup yet. Any updates on current preferences?

[shanegtr]

I know this is an old thread though all related to D4 roof racks seem to be the same age. I am looking at the long version platform. ARB released their 'base rack' and I am considering the 8-beam model (22.8kg; 212.5cm L x 128.5cm W). Specs indicate it will take more than enough capacity for us. The front runner 'slimline II' looks the part though ~17kg heavier, and I can't find carrying capacity though assume it would be enough. Now, the Rhino-rack 'pioneer platform' is 40kg and seems to only have a described capacity support of only 35kg over and above the rack weight (according to the website).

I carry a 6th spare tyre on rim (~35kg), a storage box (~15kg), a black wolf tent (10kg?), and a set of maxtraxs. Firewood will go on as required.

I have not priced the ARB setup yet. Any updates on current preferences?
Go for the lightest rack that will suit your requirements. The factory roof load rating is only 75kg so very easy to load up above that. With my rhino rack fully loaded I'm at about 100kg (including the rack weight). Thats for a max touring weight, I generally try to minimise what I carry on the roof and move stuff to other areas when I can.

[Macadamia]

I’d look into getting a double rear wheel carrier before putting one on the roof. It’s just far too much weight for up there not to mention absurdly difficult to get it up there and get it down. Not a one person job.

[Eric SDV6SE]

I’d look into getting a double rear wheel carrier before putting one on the roof. It’s just far too much weight for up there not to mention absurdly difficult to get it up there and get it down. Not a one person job.

Agree. If you must carry a second spare, consider just the tyre carcass and a set of tyre levers (plus a compressor, but thats std gear anyway). Strap the carcass to the roof rack. Rhino platform gets my vote, so versatile.

[rocket rod]

I have not priced the ARB setup yet. Any updates on current preferences?
Tracklander 4WD Roof Rack Supplier in Perth, Sydney, Melbourne & Australia | Car Roof Racks – Tracklander (https://tracklander.com.au/)

[Arch]

I bought the Front Runner slimline for my RRS before Xmas when they had a sale on. For the RRS it had a far better roof mounting system - they take the fixing hardware seriously.

[Sandy]

Thanks to all. I have just returned form ARB - they said they would not sell me a full length base rack as it creates too much noise. The only one they fitted, they tried with wind deflectors and other mods and said the wind noise was still intolerable. They say it is to do with the change in roof height at the rear. They said a 3/4 length may work with a different leg system. Not often people wont take your money. Told me to look at alternatives like front runner.

So those that have front runner or other full length racks - do you have a noticeable wind noise issue i should worry about? Also, don't all LR4 long wheel bases have full length roof rails for rack fitment? many thanks.

[Eric SDV6SE]

Full length rails along both sides of the gutter on all D4's,under the black cover strip's. Full length pioneer platform on the backbone system. I don't worry about the wind noise, the AT tyre noise and 3 teenagers drown it out.

Seriously though, unladen the noise is minimal.

[loanrangie]

Full length rails along both sides of the gutter on all D4's,under the black cover strip's. Full length pioneer platform on the backbone system. I don't worry about the wind noise, the AT tyre noise and 3 teenagers drown it out.

Seriously though, unladen the noise is minimal.Even laden it's not bad.

[loanrangie]

Thanks to all. I have just returned form ARB - they said they would not sell me a full length base rack as it creates too much noise. The only one they fitted, they tried with wind deflectors and other mods and said the wind noise was still intolerable. They say it is to do with the change in roof height at the rear. They said a 3/4 length may work with a different leg system. Not often people wont take your money. Told me to look at alternatives like front runner.

So those that have front runner or other full length racks - do you have a noticeable wind noise issue i should worry about? Also, don't all LR4 long wheel bases have full length roof rails for rack fitment? many thanks.I'm on my phone so can't see your location but if in Melbourne your welcome to check mine out.

[rocket rod]

I had the Pioneer platform sitting on legs, not backbone, and the noise was terrible plus I ended up hating having to use the eye bolts to tie things down. Sold it and got a Tracklander that comes standard with a wind deflector and there's minimal noise. The mess base allows unlimited selection of tie down points and the rack itself is rated to 200kg off road. Very happy TLRAL22FT - Tracklander (https://tracklander.com.au/product/tlral22ft/)

[Sandy]

I'm on my phone so can't see your location but if in Melbourne your welcome to check mine out.

Thanks loanrangie, but I am in Brisbane.

[Sandy]

I had the Pioneer platform sitting on legs, not backbone, and the noise was terrible plus I ended up hating having to use the eye bolts to tie things down. Sold it and got a Tracklander that comes standard with a wind deflector and there's minimal noise. The mess base allows unlimited selection of tie down points and the rack itself is rated to 200kg off road. Very happy TLRAL22FT - Tracklander (https://tracklander.com.au/product/tlral22ft/)

Thanks Rod. The tracklander seems to be the longest of all of the full length ones. Low wind noise sounds encouraging. Mesch base is good too.

I am now wondering if i should go with a 3/4 length unit - the more I get feedback it seems that the noise issue maybe more to do with the full length units. I have a 3/4 rhino rack on legs on my current D3 (installed ~ 2008) and have never been concerned.

[Macadamia]

I put my pioneer platform on 6x Rhino RLT600 quick release legs and I just take it off between camping trips. I found the rack created extra wind noise and killed my fuel economy for no benefit driving around town and I even had to be a bit careful of garage height restrictions.

[LRD414]

….. now wondering if i should go with a 3/4 length unit - the more I get feedback it seems that the noise issue maybe more to do with the full length units. I have a 3/4 rhino rack on legs on my current D3 (installed ~ 2008) and have never been concerned.
Less noise and less temptation to load it up too much. I got a 3/4 Rhino Pioneer 7 years ago mounted on legs. You could bring yours across from the D3 or replicate if keeping both vehicles.

Scott

[josh.huber]

I've got a full length rhino on the backbone, it's great. Last week I added a light bar. Lucky I have not wired yet. It's coming straight off. I can't stand noise. I put a quick shade, solar panel and gas bottle on mine. Never hear them.

[loanrangie]

I've got a full length rhino on the backbone, it's great. Last week I added a light bar. Lucky I have not wired yet. It's coming straight off. I can't stand noise. I put a quick shade, solar panel and gas bottle on mine. Never hear them.How is it mounted, put mine on just before this trip and I haven't noticed any extra noise.

[rocket rod]

Thanks Rod. The tracklander seems to be the longest of all of the full length ones. Low wind noise sounds encouraging. Mesch base is good too.

I am now wondering if i should go with a 3/4 length unit - the more I get feedback it seems that the noise issue maybe more to do with the full length units. I have a 3/4 rhino rack on legs on my current D3 (installed ~ 2008) and have never been concerned.

Before you buy any rack you gotta decide what's going up there. If it's one or two swags, 3/4 will be ok but if like me you have 2 swags, tracks, 2 tyres (yes I'm overloaded) then you'll need full length. I used to take my pioneer off when not in use and stored on a pully in the shed roof but it was a pain to do that. The current rack stays on and has made no noticeable difference to fuel use.

[TopEndThom]

I've got a full length rhino on the backbone, it's great. Last week I added a light bar. Lucky I have not wired yet. It's coming straight off. I can't stand noise. I put a quick shade, solar panel and gas bottle on mine. Never hear them.

I have the full length Rhino platform. I’ve got a 42in slimline light bar fitted underneath. When I first fitted it the noise was insane. It was like someone playing celo up there. I took it off and put new holes in the mounting brackets to bring it up almost flush with the rack and now it’s silent. Worth a shot.

On the whole I don’t notice any intrusive noise from the full length at all and I absolutely love the versatility of the sliding tiedown rings and sliding awning mounts.

[loanrangie]

I have a 42" double row led bar and as you can see it's pretty much inline with the end of the rack.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220120/f416ba078ea34f9714c863fe5509d204.jpg