I've been searching for a roof rack, but I can't believe how expensive they are. I'm trying to find something that will fit into the existing rails on my roof. I've searched here and checked out some of your personal 4Runner sites.

I've seen Wilderness Roof Racks listed for $450 and I'm not sure if this includes the floor rails. The Thule and Yakima racks seem to run about $350+ for all the parts. Are there other alternatives that aren't as expensive? I'm not a "tightwad" regarding spending my money, but $450 seems like alot for a metal roof rack.

 

When I got my Yakima Load Warrior a few years back, it was about $220 or so.
And the 18" extension was $80.

Looks like they have gone up in price, but as you said, the rack is pretty much complete and it will bolt right onto the factory roof rails right out of the box.

It will sit up higher like mine does with it mounted to Yak crossbars.

As far as durability goes, mine sits outdoors 24/7, and the only wear on it is some green mold from the fir tree I park under.
But that comes off when I wash the rig.

 

My philosophy with any mod is that if you don't need it, it's too expensive. Unless you can get it free.
What do you NEED to have up there?

 

Roadrunner,

I highly suggest you look on ebay to purchase either the Yakima or Thule base systems. Often times people will sell their complete base systems with accessories for dirt cheap. Unlike a computer or some other sensitive, delicate equipment, you really don't have to worry about these rack systems b/c they are made for outdoor use. I've had my base system for over 10 years now with no signs of rust. Then again, I live in CA so take it for what it's worth.

Bob

 

mine was only like 250 or something like that shipped with the mounting brackets, i bought a surco on ebay.

 

Bob,
I hadn't thought about Ebay, I'll take a look tonight.

dajabr,
My cousins, their wives, and mine go camping alot. Sometimes down to the Outerbanks to go surf fishing or to the Blue Ridge Mountains. I am looking for options for carrying extra assorted camping/travel supplies that I might not pack inside. Since we won't be backpacking, I could take some "luxury items" in the 4Runner (like my Coleman air mattress or larger tent).

I saw Cabelas has one of those racks that hook into the trailer hitch and you can get a soft canvas-like box for it.

Thanks for the help.