benbenww 2014 AC Build Thread

I got tired of going on camping trips and stressing about all the gear left open in the bed while I ran in for groceries or wanted to go on a hike. Tonneau covers haven't worked with bed racks in the past, but Yakima's new Overhaul HD setup mates up with the Retrax XR series. It's a $$$ combo, and tough to swallow when I already have a setup that mostly works, but I didn't see another option so I went ahead and replaced a perfectly good bed rack.

Bringing it home.


Assembling the Retrax.


Switching out the Thule XSporter Pro for Yakima Overhaul HD. Alu-Cab tents are not lightweight, so it took a few neighbors to help with lifting.


And the fully assembled retractable tonneau cover that operates seamlessly with a bed rack.


I should note that the weight capacity is severely decreased with the bed rack attaching to the tonneau cover. The rack is typically rated for 300 pounds in offroad driving situations, but when attached to the tonneau rails it drops to only 180 pounds offroad. I talked to the folks at Yakima and they said the decrease is due to the aluminum channels of the tonneau cover failing in off camber situations. Retrax said they send out new side rails if they deform. Until I feel a little more comfortable carrying the amount of weight I have, I think I'll stick to Forest Service Roads and the easy routes in sand dunes. In the meantime, I now have no worries leaving my camping gear locked in the bed at trailheads and grocery stores.

 

Thread Revival; Any squeaks in the leafs after all this time?