Quick and easy mounting option for roof rack on shell

[enzo]

I'm thinking of getting a shell and mounting my RTT up there. I'm sure it's been done but wanted to see if anyone has ran into any problems.

[fourfa]

I added a third pair of mounting brackets, that was a necessary addition with the extended MegaWarrior and 6' bed. Without the extension over a 5' bed, probably not needed. I haven't needed any additional parts to hold the rack from moving side to side - pure clamping friction keeps it in place. I guess you're not using the MegaWarrior so just FYI for anyone else...

Zero problems with leakage, breakage or anything like that.

One thing I'd do during installation, as I'm getting ready to do it now. Install something useful on the inside of the roof, between the roof and the hemispherical interior nuts. Like a hook, or a mounting plate for webbing. Use that as an attachment point for some kind of roof storage. Maybe a stretch net (to stuff jackets and other bulky, lightweight items) or what I'm doing - mounting a couple of MOLLE panels up there, and attaching a dozen ditty pouches for random small items, a machete, water bottle, etc. It'll help manage the clutter in my living quarters.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/140674755621...84.m1497.l2649

[Tbird]

This is pretty slick. Wish I'd seen this thread earlier. I got a hold of a nice mid-rise ARE shell w/ the Yakama channels already installed.
I also have the same basket you do...w/o the extension. I also was not about to spend almost $300 for the landing pads/tower/bar combo.
So a friend and myself just fabbed feet and bars for mine. We tried to make it a lower profile...but it's still higher than I'd like.

After all that work...now I'm considering going your route.

[jamyers77]

fourfa, thanks for this post. I've been trying to figure out how to mount my Loadwarrior (9" skinnier than the Mega) to the cap. I too wanted a cheaper/shorter alternative to the Yakima towers.
Here's what I'm thinking

Unistrut channels on the outside mounted permanently to the cap. Then install unistrut crossbars to the LW. This would accomplish a few things. It would provide movement of the rack front to back and still have the ability to throw onto the wife's XTerra. Most importantly it will essentially widen the stance of the LW. This will allow me to mount the permanent strut farther outside avoiding the honeycomb and provide more strength.

It makes sense to me, but looking for any feedback.

[partsflyin]

fourfa, thanks for the great idea !! Just mounted my warrior yesterday using your method. Couldn't be happier !! I also went ahead and mounted a small D-ring to each mounting bolt on the inside of the shell. Plans are to weave in some bungee cord for light overhead storage.
Thanks again for the tip !!

[partsflyin]

Snapped a couple pics to update.
fronty2.jpg
fronty1.jpg
fronty4.jpg

[YotaPilot]

fronty1.jpg
fronty4.jpg

I really like this idea. Thanks for the pics. Have you considered using a cargo net? That seems like it would work better for holding lighter items.

[86tuning]

Brilliant!

[TJRICE3333]

Great looking work! Are those the original rack rails that came on your Leer? I've got a Leer 100XL and would love to "borrow" ideas from your project.

[fourfa]

There were no rails on my Leer. First link in the original post is the kit I used.