Putting a rack/rail system on a camper shell

I have a bare camper shell I would like to put a rack to carry surfboards on. Where have you guys bought rail systems from? I found this at REI, I’m thinking something like this is what I’m looking for...

https://www.rei.com/product/679476/...MI5LK285yj3wIVA9VkCh3pYgKSEAQYAyABEgILXvD_BwE

What all is involved in the installation process? Easy or hard?

 

Buy FrontRunner Outfitters tracks. Much stronger than Yakima/Thule stuff.

 

Yes the Thule or Yakima track at REI will work. As @here4cake said... Get these instead https://www.frontrunneroutfitters.c...cSA9h82X3PIw_1U4r-6GBok2oP7fFXDYaAuq2EALw_wcB
They are stronger and cheaper.
As far as mounting them to the top of your shell. Is it hard? I did not think so. If you can use a tape measure and a drill you can do it. Measure 3 times and relax. You need to be able to stomach drilling holes in you new shell. I recommend using stainless hardware (if not provided) for mounting to avoid rust. The Yakima comes with hardware. A dab of silicone in and round each drilled hole will help prevent leaks.
I have been using the Thule ones for years without issue. I have had bikes, roof top tents, cargo boxes, kayaks, ect on my shell rack. That being said if I did it over i would buy the Frontrunner ones.

 

What’s the different millimeters on each roof rack used to measure? Does it matter which I buy?

 

The frontrunner track are 4.5ft and the Yakima are 5ft. Both will fit on your shell just fine. If you need to you can cut them to the size you need. If you are worried about installing yourself a shop would probably charge $60 to $100 to do it for you.

 

This thread should answer most of your questions.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/installing-yakima-tracks-on-camper-top.483625/

See post # 86 for my recommendation.

 

Rhino racks

 

I've contacted the customer support at frontrunneroutfitters and they said that I install these tracks -

https://www.frontrunneroutfitters.com/en/us/front-runner-universal-track-1800mm.html

with a few pairs of feet to support load bars -

https://www.frontrunneroutfitters.com/en/us/1165mm-slat-add-on-kit.html

I'm just looking to run tracks and crossbars with surfpads to get a setup like the ones in the pictures attatched... Can I run surfpads on this setup, or is there a better alternative to frontrunneroutfitters? Frontrunneroutfitters said they don't sell specific track and crossbar kits to install on a naked camper. 2002 Tacoma

 

+1 for Rhino Rack, here is a thread I did a while back when I purchased mine - not on a shell but same product different mounting bracket: https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/rhino-rack-installed.470338/