Looking for a roof rack for your 4WD? We take a look at strength, durability, and compatibility, as well as some notable brands. So what’s the best roof rack for a 4WD?
Introduction
Going for a long trip with your family in your car? Do you love going on 4 x 4 adventures? If your answer to both these questions is a yes, then you must be familiar with the importance of having a good roof rack. A roof rack helps you to carry all the extra gear that doesn’t fit inside your vehicle. It also makes your car more capable and allows you to go on more adventures. In this article, we will be taking a look at the best roof racks for four-wheel drives. We’ll also discuss some of the important factors that you need to consider when choosing a roof rack. So, if you’re in the market for a new roof rack, then read on!
Is it worth getting a roof rack for a four-wheel drive?
There are several reasons you might want to get a roof rack for your four-wheel drive. If you frequently transport large or bulky items, or if you need to store things outside of the vehicle, a roof rack can be a convenient and easy way to do so. They can also be helpful if your four-wheel drive has limited storage space. Roof racks can be a worthwhile investment if you find yourself using them frequently.
However, if you rarely transport large items or don’t need extra storage space, they may not be worth the cost. Ultimately, it depends on your specific needs and how often you plan to use the roof rack.
Do roof racks damage your car?
No, until and unless they are not used properly they will not damage your car. It is very important to read the instructions before installing the roof racks and roof rack crossbars, and also pay special attention to the torque settings. If done properly, in accordance with roof rack fitting rules, they will not damage your car and will not be a danger for others on the road.
However, if the roof racks are overloaded or not installed properly, they can damage your car. Roof racks can also leave some scratches on the roof of your car. To avoid this, you can invest in premium racks with padded clamps. With a little bit of care, you can use roof racks without damaging your car.
“If it doesn’t fit inside the car, and you don’t need to go all out and buy a trailer, you can just throw it up top. But unlike those people we see with a mattress on the roof secured down by an arm out of each window, there is a much more dependable solution: roof racks.”
Autoguru.com.au
What are the different types of roof racks?
There are many different types of roof racks available on the market and it can be a difficult task to decide which one is right for you. However, you need to consider the following factors before selecting a roof rack for your four wheel drive:
● Roof Rack Weight.
● Mounting Position.
● Compatibility with Your Vehicle.
● Usage Frequency.
● Type & Size (based on your expected usage).
● How much weight can your roof rack carry? (affecting fuel economy)
● Durability and strength.
● Rack Ratings.
● Height of the roof.
Now that you know what to look for in a roof rack, let’s take a more detailed look at the different types of 4×4 roof racks available:
● Basket Roof Racks.
● Low Profile/Platform Roof Racks.
● Load Bars.
Basket Roof Racks
A basket roof rack is the most popular and versatile type of roof rack. It consists of a metal frame (usually steel or aluminum) with an open design that allows you to transport a variety of items. They are available in a variety of sizes and can be mounted on either the roof or the rear (hitch mounted) of your vehicle.
The main advantages of a basket roof rack are its versatility and durability. The open design allows you to transport a variety of items, from luggage to kayaks to bicycles. And because the frame is usually made of steel or aluminum, it is extremely durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear.
However, basket roof racks do have some disadvantages. The most notable is the weight penalty – because they are usually made of metal, they tend to be quite heavy. This can negatively impact your vehicle’s fuel efficiency at highway speeds due to the poor aerodynamics. Additionally, basket racks can be more difficult to load and unload than other types of roof racks.
Low Profile Roof Racks
A low profile roof rack is a great option if you’re looking for a sleek, aerodynamic design. These racks are usually made of powder-coated aluminum, which is lightweight and strong. They’re also modular, so you can add a variety of accessories to customize your setup. And because they’re more aerodynamic than basket racks, they least impact your vehicle’s fuel efficiency.
The main disadvantages of low profile roof racks are their cost and compatibility. They tend to be more expensive than basket racks, and they might not be compatible with all types of vehicles. Additionally, because they’re more aerodynamic, they can be more difficult to load and unload than other types of roof racks.
Load Bars
Load bars are the most basic type of roof rack, and they’re usually the cheapest – sometimes known as the budget roof rack. They consist of two metal bars, or roof rack cross bars, that mount to your vehicle’s roof, and they’re typically used to transport cargo boxes, bikes, kayaks, and canoes.
The main advantage of load bars is their cost – they’re usually the cheapest type of roof rack. Additionally, they’re very easy to install and remove, so you can put them on when you need them and take them off when you don’t.
However, load bars have some disadvantages. The most notable is that they are not as versatile as other types of roof racks. They’re typically only used to transport cargo boxes, bikes, kayaks, and canoes. Additionally, they might not provide as much protection for your gear as other types of roof bars or roof rails.
How far apart should roof racks be on a four-wheel drive?
The optimum spacing between the roof racks depend on the specific make and model of your four-wheel drive, as well as the weight and size of the load you are carrying.
However, a good rule of thumb is to position the roof racks 24-36 inches apart. This will provide enough stability for most loads, without putting too much strain on the roof of your vehicle.
If you are carrying a particularly heavy or large load, you may need to increase the spacing between the racks. Consult your four-wheel drive’s owner manual for more specific guidance.
What are the best roof racks for a four-wheel drive?
With so many brands on the market, it can be hard to know where to start when looking for the best roof rack for your four-wheel drive. However, by considering all the factors described above, you can narrow down your options and find the perfect roof rack for your needs.
Some of the most popular roof racks for four-wheel drives include Yakima, Thule roof racks, Rhino-Rack, Whispbar, and more. In order to make your search easier, we have compiled a list of our top picks for every type of roof rack:
● Best Platform Rack: Front Runner SlimLine II
● Best Load Bar: Rhino Rack Heavy Duty Bars
● Best Basket Roof Rack: ARB Deluxe Classic Roof Rack
Front Runner SlimLine II
The Front Runner SlimLine II is our top pick for the best platform rack. This modular rack is strong, lightweight, and versatile, making it a great option for those looking for an all-around roof rack. Additionally, the Front Runner SlimLine II is also one of the most durable racks on the market, meaning it will be able to withstand even the most extreme conditions.
Rhino Rack Heavy Duty Bars
If you are looking for a roof rack that is specifically designed for carrying loads, then the Rhino Rack Heavy Duty Bars are the perfect option for you. These bars are made from high-strength aluminum and feature an aerodynamic design, making them both strong and efficient. Additionally, the Rhino Rack Heavy Duty Bars come with a lifetime warranty, so you can be sure that they will last you for years to come.
ARB Deluxe Classic Roof Rack
For those looking for a basket-style roof rack, the ARB Deluxe Classic Roof Rack is our top pick. This rack is available both in aluminum and steel, so you can choose the material that best suits your needs. Additionally, the ARB Deluxe Classic Roof Rack is very robust and features a clean, low profile design. It is also an excellent value for money, making it a great option for those on a budget.
Which roof rack stands out as the best for a four-wheel drive?
You should consider buying a tough and versatile roof rack that will make your four-wheel drive even more capable. There are a few qualities that make a great roof rack for a four-wheel drive, including:
● Strength and durability.
● Ease of installation & removal.
● Affordability.
● Space availability for gear.
● Compatibility with your vehicle.
Strength and Durability
A great roof rack for a four-wheel drive should be built tough to handle whatever you throw at it. It should be made of high-quality materials that can withstand the elements and the wear and tear of off-road adventures.
Generally, most roof racks are made of aluminum, steel, or fiberglass with aluminum being the most popular choice because it is lightweight and corrosion-resistant. Steel is heavier and prone to rusting while fiberglass is lightweight but not as tough as aluminum.
Ease of Installation and Removal
Another important consideration is how easy the rack is to install and remove without any help. You don’t want to be struggling with a complicated installation process every time you want to hit the trails. Additionally, look for the rack with the necessary mounting hardware and instructions for installation that are included in the package.
Affordability
Of course, you also need to consider your budget when choosing a roof rack. There are many high-quality and durable options available at different price points. It is important to find one that fits your needs and budget without compromising on quality. Load bars are budget-friendly option that is popular among four-wheel drive owners.
Space Availability for Gear
When choosing a roof rack, you need to make sure that it has enough space to store all of your gear. If you are an avid adventurer, then you will need a large and spacious rack. However, if you only use it occasionally, then a smaller rack will suffice.
If you use rooftop tents, you will need to find out which kind of roof rack system or roof rails you may need, that are compatible.
Compatibility with Your Vehicle
It is important to make sure that the roof rack you choose is compatible with your vehicle. Most racks will have specific instructions on which vehicles they are compatible with, though you can find roof racks or roof rails for just about any vehicle. You need to check this before making your purchase to avoid any issues.
Therefore, you should consider buying a roof rack that is made with durable material like aluminum, light in weight, easy to install and remove, and affordable. Most importantly, make sure that it is compatible with your vehicle.
“When carrying any load or equipment on a roof rack it is important to be aware that the centre of gravity of the vehicle is raised. This may adversely affect the handling and stability characteristics of the vehicle and care should be taken whilst driving.”
Transport.wa.gov.au
Conclusion
There are many great roof racks available on the market for four-wheel drives. However, not all of them are created equal. When choosing a roof rack, you need to consider factors such as strength and durability, ease of installation and removal, affordability, space availability for gear, and compatibility with your vehicle. By taking all of these things into consideration, you will be able to find the best roof rack for your four-wheel drive.
Have you ever installed a roof rack on a four-wheel drive? What tips would you add? Let us know in the comments below! Happy adventuring!
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