Ladder racks

Here are some pics of my Elevate rack system. I do not have any bending of the T-slots yet. I have to assume that will come from over tightening the hardware.


I also attached a couple pics showing the mounting or the Retrax. There are 2 bright aluminum brackets on either side that attach to the rails. Still leaves most of the rail usable.

BTW, if you order a Elevate rack system from Real Truck before 12/31 they will send you a free set of horizontal cross bars free at the length of your choice. If you buy a cover and the rack, make sure you call them and tell them you would like a discount. I was also looking at the Yakima and I still think the Yakima looks better, but this rack has the same load specs and hundreds of $$ less. I will only have it on when I need it. It will take 5 minutes to remove or put it back on.

 

How easy is it to change the height of the Elevate system? At it's lowest height, would it sit below the cabin roof line? Ideally, I'd like a rack that I can lower (below the roof line) when not carrying longer cargo like ladders/paddleboards/kayaks, and only raise it when needed. With the Yakima Overhaul HD setup it's not simple to do, so I just leave it in the "up" position.

 

In doing some research I came across this forum. In the 4th post, there are 2 videos, one showing the issue, and one showing what someone did as a work around. Seems like a pretty poor design by Yakima on this. Also from what I've read Yakima did try and address this by including "bigger" t-bolts in the kit, but I'm not sure if I have the newer or older ones.

https://www.tundras.com/threads/any...raxpro-xr-and-yakima-overhaul-hd-setup.95616/

@Santana@Realtruck

Are you guys aware of this issue? When I contacted Retrax support (about this issue, along with issues I'm having with my RetraxOne cover), they indicated this was not covered under warranty but I've seen some other posts indicating Retrax covered it?

 

Any one try the rackit ladder racks? I want a hevey duty rack for pipe and ladders. But i hear the composit beds can’t handle that kind of weight. Is this true or was sales guy trying to up sale me?

 

Probably 10 minutes to raise it. Yes, it is basically level with roof line in it's lowest position. I figure the only reason I would need to raise it to throw lumber up there. Kayaks won't hit cab roof.

 

I'd also be interested in what anyone has to say about the Rackit set-up. The biggest issue for me is trying to figure out which racks, covers, bed accessories, etc. can be integrated/used together.

 

Up Top has started making ladder/utility racks. I don’t have any personal experience with their racks but Mike from LLOD has part ownership in the company now and is involved in designing their stuff; I would trust anything he puts his name behind.

https://www.uptopoverland.com/collections/workhorse-utility-rack

 

Thanks

Thanks I am looking now!