The 2001 4runner has a rack that is useless if do contracting work. I need some kind of rack that can help me carry 2 x 4's and maybe some plywood and things like that. I understand it is not a regular truck and has many limitations when it comes to cargo, but there has to be something better. I am not looking for the basket type but more along the lines of cross members with somekind of system that helps tie things down. Thanks in advance.

 

you're using an SUV to carry 2 x 4s to do contracting work? i would think it would be a little more convient if you had atleast a trailer, or a truck?

 

I put these on my van for contracting work. They work great. They make them with straight bars too..

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Mini-...item562b3161a1

 

I wouldn't put plywood and 2x4s on the roof. Reason being is unless you strap them down with big time ratchet straps you won't be able to proeperly secure them. And the pressure of a ratchet strap will easily tear up and bend the roof rack on a 4runner.

Also consider the amount of force that will be transferred if you have any amount of lumber on the roof and have make sudden stop. I've lost count how many times I've seen lumber that just flew foward off the top of somones car because they couldn't put enough gripping force on it with ratchet straps due to the limits of the roof rack..

Seriously consider getting a small trailer. If you look around you can get 5x8 trailers pretty cheap (under $1000). And when you consider the outcome if you loose your lumber on the highway, the price of a trailer is ultra cheap in the long run.

 

go with a yakima with at least 66" bars

 

Yakima/Thule bars would do what you're asking for, but I agree; it's not safe to carry that kind of load on a regular basis. I've got 66 inch Yakima bars and I've carried 2x2's, 2x4's, and a ladder without any problems. I drove like a granny and was lucky not to have to stop quickly. Another issue with the roof top rack is that the load limit is only like 150-200 lbs. We have a trailer for regular hauling and it works great: No worries about damaging the 4Runner and safer on the road.