Fitting extra (3rd) roof rack https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/t125698 Runboard| Fitting extra (3rd) roof rack en-us Thu, 28 Mar 2024 15:23:47 +0000 Thu, 28 Mar 2024 15:23:47 +0000 https://www.runboard.com/ rssfeeds_managingeditor@runboard.com (Runboard.com RSS feeds managing editor) rssfeeds_webmaster@runboard.com (Runboard.com RSS feeds webmaster) akBBS 60 Re: Fitting extra (3rd) roof rackhttps://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2096107,from=rss#post2096107https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2096107,from=rss#post2096107I am about to mount Rhino Tracks on my Jeep. Don't see why you couldn't do the same to the X-Trail. But I havent read all the pages of this thread either! OK, now that I have read through all the pages, DaveS has done it, the same as what I'm doing with my Jeep. As the track has MANY rivet points into the roof, it spreads the load over all the structural areas the original roof mounts attach to, "...and then some". Basically the same as the X-Trail... http://www.ausjeepoffroad.com/forum/showthread.php?t=140727 On the Jeep, there is just two M8 bolts with no reinforcing, just crimped into the roof metal at each end under the plastic caps, holding the roof rail to the roof.These are known to crack the roof metal due to stress, rust, and leak water into the cabin. Not very confidence inspiring when loading a big alloy tray on! And with the tracks mounted, you can have as many cross bars or mounting legs as you like...spaced anywhere along the track you need: nondisclosed_email@example.com (Wiz Au)Fri, 31 Aug 2018 11:48:17 +0000 Re:https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2087238,from=rss#post2087238https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2087238,from=rss#post2087238I want 2 things... 1) 3 cross bars to spread out the weight. Rhino and all others say max weight is 75kg; whereas the series IV and V T31 book says that 100kg on the roof is fine. I also want 3, to support the weight of the platform + i'm thinking of getting a Foxwing 2) i want track mount, so I can move it around, depending on what I'm carrying. They're both linked, as having 3 bars, i'd need to space them accordingly to match the medium Rhino Platform. I'm thinking, rather than having a track mount rivitted inboard of the plastic covers, I'd get it rivetted on the outside... giving it a lot of strength as the outer frame would be much much stronger... similar to how a lot of the mitsu challengers have it (on the outside of their roof rails)... nondisclosed_email@example.com (konazz)Wed, 18 Mar 2015 11:32:14 +0000 Re: Re:https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2087090,from=rss#post2087090https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2087090,from=rss#post2087090quote:konazz wrote: Thanks for the info guys. Looks like the plastic rails are staying. Would it be feasible to simply have a track rail riveteted inside the plastic rails? Would that be ok for strength? I'm more interested in accessing the removable cross-bars... so I could have a set of crossbars attached to my medium steel plaform, and another set with my kayak holders. I'm thinking of switching to the HD Rhinos soon, as i can't get a good hold on the medium platform (it vibrates like crazy). I notice a lot of car with baskets/platforms have their u-shackles facing up... which is stupid because it would tear through my canvas bag... I think thats the problem that the u-shackles from my prorack are supposed to face up. If you mean riveting track to the roof itself (in between the rails) then yes you can definitely do that. Obviously you wouldn't want to load it up any more than absolutely necessary. Although I was answering in regard to what I thought you hoped to achieve, I've just re-read your original post.. quote:konazz wrote: What's under the plastic rails? Do you think you can take them off and install a rail roof track system. Rhino has released detachable Cross bars but only on their rail legs, not fixed. Not sure if I'm misunderstanding this... but you're hoping to have 2 sets of crossbars (however they're mounted), one to carry your kayaks on and one to mount the roof basket, yes? So still only the two crossbars? or are you hoping for the 3? Because Rhino Rack do removable HD crossbars to suit the xtrail... I had them on mine? Or have I confused myself here?nondisclosed_email@example.com (Ian Ewin)Sun, 01 Mar 2015 20:58:44 +0000 Re:https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2087035,from=rss#post2087035https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2087035,from=rss#post2087035Thanks for the info guys. Looks like the plastic rails are staying. Would it be feasible to simply have a track rail riveteted inside the plastic rails? Would that be ok for strength? I'm more interested in accessing the removable cross-bars... so I could have a set of crossbars attached to my medium steel plaform, and another set with my kayak holders. I'm thinking of switching to the HD Rhinos soon, as i can't get a good hold on the medium platform (it vibrates like crazy). I notice a lot of car with baskets/platforms have their u-shackles facing up... which is stupid because it would tear through my canvas bag... I think thats the problem that the u-shackles from my prorack are supposed to face up.nondisclosed_email@example.com (konazz)Thu, 26 Feb 2015 13:24:17 +0000 Re: Re:https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2086992,from=rss#post2086992https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2086992,from=rss#post2086992quote:konazz wrote: Jalal What's under the plastic rails? Do you think you can take them off and install a rail roof track system. Rhino has released detachable Cross bars but only on their rail legs, not fixed. Spreading the load over the entire roof, evenly across those areas above the pillars used for factory mounts should be fine. Haven't encountered a single roof rack specialist who has said otherwise. You can pretty much bolt track rails to any car. I looked into doing this just for the 3rd roof rack on the back (with the knowledge that an isolated section like that would not be as strong as the rest), but an entire roof rail replacement is a solid option and is done quite commonly across all different types of vehicles. Just for example: http://www.tradesmanroofracks.com.au/shop/nissan/nissan-x-trail-roof-rack/ do exactly this with their own laser-cut mounting system that they actually mount underneath the factory rail before replacing the original plastic for that "factory look", they cost a motza though!nondisclosed_email@example.com (Ian Ewin)Mon, 23 Feb 2015 21:40:19 +0000 Re:https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2086956,from=rss#post2086956https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2086956,from=rss#post2086956That's a better description. Thanks Those steel rivets are one-sided/flat headed bolts and the nuts are only accessible with the roof lining removed.nondisclosed_email@example.com (jalalski)Fri, 20 Feb 2015 08:32:07 +0000 Re: Fitting extra (3rd) roof rackhttps://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2086948,from=rss#post2086948https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2086948,from=rss#post2086948The roof rails are over a depression/channel in the roof panel. Under each of the four roof rack mount covers is a thick steel bracket with 2 threaded holes and it is fixed to the roof with what looks like heavy steel rivets. Each bracket is directly over a door pillar and a roof support member that runs cross ways under the roof and fixed to it so as to strengthen the roof. I imagine each roof rack mount is also fixed to these cross members thereby making the firmly and strongly attached to the car. If you add a 3rd pair of mounts without them being fixed to some substantial cross member then they may well be too flimsy to be safe. nondisclosed_email@example.com (Translucidus)Thu, 19 Feb 2015 21:33:44 +0000 Re:https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2086947,from=rss#post2086947https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2086947,from=rss#post2086947Hi Michael, Nothing much under the roof rails, it's the standard roof metal with 4 bracket holding the roof rails in place.nondisclosed_email@example.com (jalalski)Thu, 19 Feb 2015 21:28:58 +0000 Re:https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2086946,from=rss#post2086946https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2086946,from=rss#post2086946Jalal What's under the plastic rails? Do you think you can take them off and install a rail roof track system. Rhino has released detachable Cross bars but only on their rail legs, not fixed. nondisclosed_email@example.com (konazz)Thu, 19 Feb 2015 21:16:35 +0000 Re:https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2086817,from=rss#post2086817https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2086817,from=rss#post2086817No mate you don't to remove the roof lining to fit roof racks and the 4 covers covering the mounting points. This is only applicable if you want to remove the roof rails all together or if you want to remove the 2 end-caps of the roof rails.nondisclosed_email@example.com (jalalski)Mon, 09 Feb 2015 15:36:32 +0000 Re: Fitting extra (3rd) roof rackhttps://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2086816,from=rss#post2086816https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2086816,from=rss#post2086816quote:jalalski wrote: Tony, It's a major job. They're held by a bolt going through the roof and the only way to get to that bolt is to remove the roof lining. Hi Jalalski: Please confirm that you Have to remove the roof lining to remove the 4 covers over the mounting points to install roof racks on a T31!!! Tanondisclosed_email@example.com (Translucidus)Mon, 09 Feb 2015 13:45:45 +0000 Re: Fitting extra (3rd) roof rackhttps://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085491,from=rss#post2085491https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085491,from=rss#post2085491Yep a 42012 platform will need 3 mounts on an xtrail. the factory 2 are too close together to give you a stable enough base for it. you could use a 42101/100 but they are only 1500 long. AFAK the holes at the back of the plastic rails are only for the spoiler, you could try setting them up for a cross bar but, I don't know how much load they will take. An alternative idea could be to mount tracks inboard of the plastic rails, you still have to drill/rivet them on but you don't need to drop the roof lining to remove the old rails. you'd be able to mount up to 1800 long tracks up there, then you can use track mount feet with spacers to have the 1900 platform sit level. $'s wise you are looking at an easy $1200 fitted though. Good lucknondisclosed_email@example.com (davess)Mon, 13 Oct 2014 10:07:53 +0000 Re:https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085474,from=rss#post2085474https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085474,from=rss#post2085474I'm aiming for the Rhino Rack Pioneer Platform (black/alloy) in the 1928 x 1236 size.. been fix-price quoted for $730... it uses the existing feet of my rhino hd crossbars for mounting. Even if I was to add the price of 3 crossbars, 3 pairs of xtrail specific foot mounts and the spacers required to mount the 3rd foot level with the front two..It still comes in a few hundred under $1800 :/ nondisclosed_email@example.com (Ian Ewin)Fri, 10 Oct 2014 13:13:39 +0000 Re: Fitting extra (3rd) roof rackhttps://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085473,from=rss#post2085473https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085473,from=rss#post20854731800mm long $1800 is almost more than a T30 is worth these days.nondisclosed_email@example.com (davess)Fri, 10 Oct 2014 10:14:10 +0000 Re: Fitting extra (3rd) roof rackhttps://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085469,from=rss#post2085469https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085469,from=rss#post2085469$1800 wow, not cheap. Think I have found a solution to my storage issues when I get the roof top tent. Tiregate make a rear wheel carrier with dual jerry can mount that fits into the existing tow bar and swings away. It costs $1800 shipped to Broome so I might go that route. Keeps the weight low toonondisclosed_email@example.com (maxgmoore)Fri, 10 Oct 2014 09:18:28 +0000 Re: Fitting extra (3rd) roof rackhttps://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085454,from=rss#post2085454https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085454,from=rss#post2085454Ok Lads here's some pics of my setup. I forgot to mention we did need to remove some hard mount points from the roof, which we used a turbo disk on 5" grinder to do. I'm happy with it so far, I was intending to switch to a bigger rhino basket on RD1250 bars and RLT500 feet. This first pic shows the track looking back from the p/s front. This is from the d/s looking down on the track This is looking straight on from the driver side. It's not a really tricky mod, and I do like the look of the roof with out anything sticking up when I take the bars off. Cheers, Dave Admin Edit: Photos fixed.nondisclosed_email@example.com (davess)Thu, 09 Oct 2014 10:10:22 +0000 Re:https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085451,from=rss#post2085451https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085451,from=rss#post2085451Definitely post up some pics. I've ordered the bits and pieces I'll need to start on my 3rd rack, so should finally be happening in the next month or so. nondisclosed_email@example.com (Ian Ewin)Wed, 08 Oct 2014 22:57:26 +0000 Re:https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085445,from=rss#post2085445https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085445,from=rss#post2085445Yes Dave, pics will be good. Thanks nondisclosed_email@example.com (jalalski)Wed, 08 Oct 2014 10:54:01 +0000 Re: Fitting extra (3rd) roof rackhttps://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085442,from=rss#post2085442https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085442,from=rss#post2085442Hi all I solved the rack problem on mine by removing the factory plastic rails and replacing them with Rhino track so now I can have up to 3 bars on the roof and place them wherever I need them. At present I still only run 2 and have them set towards the rear of the vehicle. It was a reasonably involved process, dropping the roof lining, unbolting the existing plastic and then riveting on the track but I think it ended up being a better look and fit than the original set up. The plan is to add a 1800 long tray at some stage in the near future to move more of the camping gear out of the cabin and free up some space. I can post up pics if anyone is interested. Cheers, Davenondisclosed_email@example.com (davess)Wed, 08 Oct 2014 09:52:54 +0000 Re: Fitting extra (3rd) roof rackhttps://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085346,from=rss#post2085346https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085346,from=rss#post2085346it all seems very complicated for my post night shift brain to comprehend. will re look at it when im back in the swing of normal life haha, thanks guys nondisclosed_email@example.com (maxgmoore)Tue, 30 Sep 2014 22:46:44 +0000 Re:https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085330,from=rss#post2085330https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085330,from=rss#post2085330No worries, all clear now and Max has enough information to embark on this task and let us know how he goes nondisclosed_email@example.com (jalalski)Tue, 30 Sep 2014 10:17:34 +0000 Re:https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085328,from=rss#post2085328https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085328,from=rss#post2085328If you actually have a really close look at that T30 photo Jalal, you can see that the original factory roof rail end cap is still in place. The foot is actually seated "between" the two roof rails and not on the exisiting rail provision, which is likely employing a track-mount foot like I've mentioned. The shadow crossing the rear of the roof rail also implies that the crossbar (the part of it continuing past the mounting foot) is hanging over the roof rail and not mounted on it (like the front two). I thought I'd explained that way back when I first posted the picture, but it looks like I forgot entirely to respond to your initial comments after I posted the photo, so my apologies.nondisclosed_email@example.com (Ian Ewin)Tue, 30 Sep 2014 09:36:04 +0000 Re:https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085319,from=rss#post2085319https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085319,from=rss#post2085319What I meant was to use the existing bolt "holes" rather than go drilling the roof to create new mounting spots. Am sure a bracket of some sort could be fabricated to attached to the existing bolts positions under those roof rail end caps and that is what the guy with T30 in your earlier pic has probably done. I have also looked at these end caps (and what is under them) thoroughly when I had a T30 and was fitting an after-market roof spoiler there. The bolts are thicker than those used for the factory roof rails and they have a flat head, meaning they grab the plastic end-cap with the flat head and go through the roof of the car. I don't think any roof rack manufacturers has actually bothered to explore this option, hence the lack of the 3rd roof rack availability, as the installation time (including pulling a section of the roof lining) is more trouble than its worth and will make this option an expensive one. In any case, Max will soon find-out what exactly is involved himself when he has a look under the end-caps. Just go pulling them off or lifting them to have a look because the base which is attached around the bolt will crack.nondisclosed_email@example.com (jalalski)Mon, 29 Sep 2014 14:30:22 +0000 Re:https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085317,from=rss#post2085317https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085317,from=rss#post2085317Much tidier in theory, but the two bolts/holes at the rear aren't designed to take the standard xtrail feet for any crossbars. The bolts are tiny and not spaced correctly for any type of product. Rescue1/Alan is a Rhino Dealer or something yeah? He could probably tell you that officially. If someone wanted to avoid doing anything obvious they could remove the plastic end of the roof rail and rivet the track section to the recessed rail area, then cut slots in the plastic end cap and fit it over the track-mount feet once installed. But using track is likely the only way to mount an extra crossbar to an xtrail; hence why it's never really been done/advertised. If it was as simple as removing the plastic end cap and using the existing bolts, every roof rack manufacturer would've done it and made their own product already. As far as I'm aware, I'm the only person who's gone to the effort of pulling off both of these end caps so I would encourage anyone else to have a look themselves. nondisclosed_email@example.com (Ian Ewin)Mon, 29 Sep 2014 13:20:57 +0000 Re:https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085312,from=rss#post2085312https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085312,from=rss#post2085312As I said before, you won't need to cut or pop rivet anything into the roof of your exy. Just take the roof lining off a little bit from the back section of your car and have a look at the 2 bolts that are and which can be used to mount the base of the 3rd rack.nondisclosed_email@example.com (jalalski)Sun, 28 Sep 2014 23:05:07 +0000 Re: Fitting extra (3rd) roof rackhttps://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085311,from=rss#post2085311https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085311,from=rss#post2085311hi guys yeah jalal i saw the photo but it was of a non members car wasn't it. wanted to speak with someone that had done it. thanks ian, might look into it more. i have already cut into the front fender....why not the roof too nondisclosed_email@example.com (maxgmoore)Sun, 28 Sep 2014 22:21:46 +0000 Re:https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085299,from=rss#post2085299https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085299,from=rss#post2085299Max, my plan with the full-length roof rack was to set the 3rd rack 5mm lower than the front 2, so that when the platform is spanning all 3; the rear is slightly counterbalanced by the front 2. Ensure that whatever weight is up there, that the majority is over the front and you should be fine. The easiest solution for a 3rd rack is to get a crossbar with "track-mount" feet, and (permanently) mount a small length of track onto the roof. All of this is achievable using Rhino products (no affiliation, I just did my research on their products as I already had Rhino HD bars and planned on using their "pioneer" platform one day).nondisclosed_email@example.com (Ian Ewin)Sat, 27 Sep 2014 21:24:58 +0000 Re:https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085288,from=rss#post2085288https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085288,from=rss#post2085288Max, if you refer to the photo posted by Ian on page 3 of this thread, you will see that it can be done but am not sure about using the 3rd rack to carry anything heavy.nondisclosed_email@example.com (jalalski)Sat, 27 Sep 2014 09:41:05 +0000 Re: Fitting extra (3rd) roof rackhttps://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085285,from=rss#post2085285https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2085285,from=rss#post2085285digging up an old thread again guys sorry. Has anyone put a 3rd roof rack on there exy T30? Im getting a roof top tent and will need to retain some roof space for a jerry or 2nd spare wheel. If I can get a 3rd rack fitted I would be able to get a steel tray that will run across all three racks that will fit the roof top tent and my other stuff. now before you start talking about weight the tent weights 50kg which will give me some wiggle room with a jerry can.nondisclosed_email@example.com (maxgmoore)Fri, 26 Sep 2014 21:26:10 +0000 Re: Re:https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2076277,from=rss#post2076277https://baustralianxtrail.runboard.com/p2076277,from=rss#post2076277quote:jalalski wrote: Not for the T30 model, the fitting is identical. Awesome thanks, I might be able to get a 2nd hand set soon for $150 bargain!nondisclosed_email@example.com (tBex)Wed, 24 Jul 2013 12:32:29 +0000