How to Make a Custom Roof Rack | I Like To Make Stuff
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 15 ส.ค. 2018
- I've always wanted a roof rack for my Land Cruiser, but the commercially available options didn't fit my needs, so I made a custom one, come see how!
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I ordered pieces of aluminum extrusion from a company called 80/20. After selecting 40mm & 80mm T-slotted pieces, I was able to provide specific dimensions that the company cut to size. The rack was designed to hold 2 full sheets of 3/4" plywood, so my initial drawing called for 80mm high rails in the front and along the sides with 40mm horizontal runners. This height difference allows the plywood to slide on top of the shorter runners and still hit the taller outsides that act as hard-stops.
With the rails, I purchased some 90-degree connectors to secure the different components together. The rack itself was essentially done, but I had to have a way to mount it to the roof. All vehicles are different, but my Toyota Land Cruiser has a metal rain gutter that runs along the sides of the roof. There are commercially available mounts that support the rack from this gutter, but we're going to make our own.
As I mentioned, you could buy a set of roof-rack mounts that attach to the rain gutters. Because I have a capable metal-working shop, I can design, prototype, and build my own set of brackets out of really inexpensive steel flat stock. After a trip to my local metal yard, I cut the flat stock into manageable pieces. Because this was a prototype, I left everything longer than it would end up so that I could mark proper dimensions and hole placement.
I went through three variations of clamping systems for the brackets. Some ideas involved bolts and bushings and some were completely reversed from conventional brackets. Ultimately, I landed on a 90-degree bent support arm that would sit in the rain gutter and a smaller, question-mark-shaped clamp would attach to the front and hold the arm in place.
No that I had tested the prototype and riddled it down to the most simple design, I was ready to batch out the rest of the final pieces. This process involved cutting six sets of bracket components: the support arm, triangular braces to add width, and the front clamp. I cut the longer arms, bent them in my hydraulic press, and welded the triangular braces onto the bottom. The front braces were cut and bent into that question mark shape using a wise and a big hammer.
I've had a powder coating setup for a while, but I've never had the right project for it. Powder coating is far more durable than painting, and by using the satin black powder, the brackets will match the black coating on the aluminum extrusion perfectly. Josh researched the process and tested the prototype. Powder coating involves cleaning the bare-metal surface, hanging it from a metal wire in the ventilated paint booth, attaching the negative-charge clamp, and using the powder coating gun to lightly puff the positively-charged powder onto the surface. Being careful not to touch the powder-covered piece, we put it in the toaster oven at 400 degrees F. Once you see the mat finish turn glossy, you start a timer for 20 minutes. After that time is up, let the parts cool and it's done.
Now that all the major components are complete, we can mount the brackets to the roof rack and set it in place on the rain gutter. After tightening all of the face clamps the roof rack was ready for use! If you remember, we used the aluminum extrusion because of its versatility and ability to act as an attachment platform. To make use of the T-track system, I mounted some toggle clamps to the tops of the frame to hold down the plywood sheets. I used some stainless steel 1/4-20 bolts that slid right into the track and secured the toggle clamps in place with self-locking nuts.
This roof rack works amazingly well hauling plywood from the store. It is still pretty basic, but the aluminum extrusion is a base platform that you can build upon. I bought an inexpensive light bar that could be mounted in the t-slots really easily. But I could also add mounts for straps, overland gear, tools, kayaks, or anything else we want! The t-slotted track makes it super simple to add bolts and brackets wherever they're needed. MUSIC: share.epidemicsound.com/iltms
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How to Make a Custom Roof Rack | I Like To Make Stuff
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I see now that I didn't make a few things clear.
1. I'm not ONLY going to use those clamps to hold wood. I was using it as a proof of concept to show how versatile the rails were. You absolutely NEED to use straps as well when hauling stuff.
2. The metal is all coated, so "touching" metals of different kinds is not really a big deal.
3. Thread locker WILL be added to all of the set screws when it's finally assembled. I'm still in the process of adjusting rail placement, etc.
4. I didn't use the existing rack because the footprint is smaller than I wanted. I didn't remove it because I didn't want to introduce a potential roof leak.
Lots of you have given really useful and helpful info, so thank you for that. (Also, a few of you are just trying to be provocative and mean. Be nice.)
I Like To Make Stuff What's the difference between welding Aluminium and Steel? Shouldn't the processes be virtually identical?
Jakub Tucker theoretically the process is the same, save for differences in properties calling for different setups. In reality it takes a lot more finesse. Mild steel (meaning not a whole lot of carbon in it, making it relatively soft) is super easy to weld. Aluminum is more conductive than steel and also has a lower melting point.
TL; DR, Theoretically, yes. In practice, no.
I Like To Make, I would recommend using the automatic fasteners to provide a more sturdy connection - you can really torque up the bolt and they don’t require any additional processing to the profile.
You can also get a selection of end caps for finishing of the ends and there is also a selection of infill strip for filling in spare slots - this can also be brought in a rubberised variety, which would be perfect for you bed cross beams as would provide a grippier surface. Plus it is super easy to remove should you want to make use of them in the future.
Also the t-slot nuts you used can be slotted in to the grooves in the profile without the need to disassemble.
Jakub Tucker lol, aluminium welding is a whole different ball game!
That is a big hamburger!
I know you are probably not going to see this. But I’m a mech design engineer by trade and do a lot of work with aluminium profile. If you or anyone in the comment section should require some assistance with aluminium profile related projects, please feel free to drop me a line. Just my way of showing support for this awesome channel. Keep up the good work.
Here's one...I use a wheelchair and drive a 2009 Subaru Outback. I like this gen Outback because it is low enough to get in and out of yet offers enough ground clearance to get me into remote areas that I like to explore. For years I've been mulling over some sort of roof rack that would slide toward the driver's side part way and tilt down at an angle, allowing me to load the rack and then tip it up and slide it back over to the center of the car. I can reach the roof of the car ok, but I can't reach over it to put stuff on the existing rack or any of the commercial options.
Years ago I considered fabricating something out of steel, but quickly realized it would get too heavy to be practical. 8020 or similar extrusions might work, however, especially after seeing this. Gonna have to browse the available parts and materials and then fire up Fusion360 and see if I can come up with something. But I'm open to ideas.
Steve Thompson sounds like an interesting project. When working with aluminium profile i always buy from “item24” as they have an excellent range of products/accessories. They also have a grate online catalog and every part has downloadable cad files, which is super handy. Will be interesting to see how you get on.
Daniel L'estrange thanks! Having the CAD files is a game changer.
Hey! it sounds like you can help me :)
i Want to mount 3 Solar Panels, each 1700mm x 1000 mm 18,5 KG on the Roof of my Mercedes Sprinter
how thick of profile do i need to support that wheight? :)
Thanks for your kindness!!
How much weight do you think this roof rack will sustain?
This was awesome! No ones asking my opinion, but I think the versatility of this is the best part. Great work
Jason H I agree with your opinion
Jason H every opinion counts!
Jason H: I didn't ask for your opinion (chuckle chuckle). Just teasing you bro :)
I really love how you point out the slight mistakes or something you would have changed in hindsight! Really shows your positive attitude towards your projects. One of my favourite channels
I'm probably never going to make a custom roof rack but, as usual, this is another one of your videos jam packed with ideas and advice. Loved it! Also, now I need to add a powdercoater to my shopping list!
That's the spirit! Most watchers aren't going to make the exact same thing, but they might take the idea and implement them into theirs. Bob is doing an awesome job.
jalal majid Yup, I agree. I'm just trying to drown out the negative trolls and let Bob know that I appreciate the content even if I am never going to make what he makes. There is inspiration and lessons to be learned every where if you are open to them.
Suggestion Ideas:
1-Roll out awning.
2-Solar Heated Shower & Tank.
3-Yak Rak.
4-A Roof Top Tent.
5-Bike Rack for MTBs.
The rack is fine for picking up a couple sheets of ply on blackstop but would fail miserably carrying all the gear you suggest on a trail. These alloy racks are built commercially and designed by engineers with knowledge of metal stresses and breaking points, working for big name companies and yet they still can fail. The section he used is very similar to a patio million you roll insect mesh into. Has slots instead of grooves. You can't beat welded steel for strength and durability. It beats light weight every time.
When your drilling any type of metal, always start with a small drill like 5mm. Also if you drill with 5mm, drill with high speed. When your drilling with a thicker drill use low drill speed. That way you are way faster and also your drills will hold out longer.
Just use a step-bit and avoid all of that.
Those toggle clamps are a brilliant idea for holding down sheet items. I've always stuffed around with straps and blocks to put downward pressure on the sheet, but will definitely look into using those in the future.
Weather proof CNC that goes on the top and operating while you drive. You just have to attach a gantry to it.
No
Was thinking the same thing! Then you don't have to worry about dust collection at all
Rofl.
Adds a whole new meaning to Custom Parts Delivery.
Really cool project! I like how you can customize this the way you want with the T-track system.
Maybe you could make a Star Wars themed rooftop cargo box to attach to this? Great work!
I'm a novice welder and I found that when I want to hide my welds it works great to use JB Weld as a body filler. Sand it into a smooth shape, prime and paint. Doesn't work if I'm powder coating. I plan to use a braising rod and it's easier to finesse. Just an idea.
I love your channel and projects! Keep it up!
I love this! I can imagine, while being a bit more finicky, this is MUCH cheaper than the specific manufactured ones for your specific truck (as far as like the track ones, not a cheap standard no moving parts one)
I would add some of those hose/pvc/big U loop ones to slide in to hold big pvc pipe for storage or outdoor shower etc. They might actually be called U bolts? I would also maybe add a tent or tarp rack that is way more low tech than the expensive ones and I could remove it when I didn't want it on more easily. I would also add some quik fist mounts to some sliders so I could add shovels, axes, other hand tools. And some tie down points for putting an extra spare tire up there and gas and/or water cans etc. Mine is more overlanding camping specific, but I bet the same slide pieces could be used for many other applications too
Heck yes. It’s 3am and I’ll never need to build a roof rack but I don’t even care I watch all your videos anyway 😂 I probably sound a bit crazy I’m sorry I am very sleep deprived
It´s going to be 4am ;-) but I hope to build a roof rack sooner or later... and also I hope to get some sleep soner, not later!
Awesome. I now now who I can send powder coating questions to. Fun isn't it? Om the spacers, I would just clean the powder off the bracket, weld the spacer to the bracket and re powder coat it. That way it would look integral and intentional.
Good call! We'll probably have some questions for you in the near future :)
I Like To Make Stuff I’ll be seeing you in the near future. Unless you mean the nearer future.
When powder coating, instead of twisting a wire through a hole in the piece, use a small metal hook, so it doesn't get in the way as much.
Mr Man you’re the man! 😁
I've really been enjoying your videos. You show each step and concisely explain what your doing.
What's also nice is you make your projects look nice and not just functional.
Great idea on making the track setup.
Liked for DIY powder coating! Going to look into that...
An arduino/fly-by-wire super soaker cannon would be a cool add on. Or a fold up/down mounted portable camp kitchen. Or mobile party system, speakers, disco ball, etc.
All are excellent ideas :)
This project just hit home with me. This summer at my work, I put together a testing frame utilizing this exact type of aluminum extrusion. We are hoping to put it into production this week. The lab is seriously considering replacing all of our current steel frame test stations with these extrusions. They are, as you said, extremely versatile and strong. Excellent use of material and well designed. Many happy travels with it.
Just amazing.... I am a 3d printing nerd and I never thought to use extrusions for this purpose. Great idea and thanks for sharing!
WOOOOO T-SLOTED ALUMINUM FRAMING!! MY FAVORITE MATERIAL. Ok, sorry for all the caps, I got a bit excited there. I love how it's modular and once you're done with one build you can deconstruct it and re-use the materials for the next build.
Dangit I just finished the video and now I want hamburgers...
I thought of you guys when I was watching. I want to build a desk like yours using it.
At £250 PER PIECE it would be cheaper to just but new angle iron for every new build
My local metal recycler sells this stuff used for about $1 pound. I made a similar rack and found that the T slots create all kinds of whistles, so I had to buy some rubber strips and insert them into the T slots to quiet it down.
Tom Griebe *I WANT SOME* I'd be happy to pay for shipping if my dad says I can.
Maybe 3d print a “nose cone” for the leading edge on either side of the light bar to cut down on noise. It would also help keep the tracks free of gunk.
Well done! I was not familiar with this T-slot material. thank you for the introduction! And powder coating at home... inspiring!
Gotta say I love the scientific method you used to evaluate the holding capacity of the clamps. About the same method I would have used. Great project.
An example of why you should watch the whole video before passing judgment/commenting/etc. At the beginning of the video I was thinking "meh..." But then you slid the plywood on the rack and it clicked for me. I've wanted to add a rack to my Mazda 3 to "haul" stuff like this but for something that you can fit a sheet of plywood on they are super expensive (if they exist at all). Thanks for another great video.
If you're worried about the expense of a pre-made rack, the aluminum extrusion direction might not be a big improvement. As far as i can tell, the stuff he used in the video was a dollar an inch on 8020.net - but maybe he found something that was half that. So two 8 foot and one 4 foot section means 120 dollars for $0.50 per inch - then more for the cross pieces, which would be a bit cheaper per inch. Then you'd add the clamps and other details - looks to me like this would be well over $200 at the cheapest.
If you really want to make something cheap that can do it, just frame something up with 2x4s. Mine has slots that allow it to drop down onto the existing cross members of the roof rack so it won't slide around, and uses heavy duty duct clamps to keep it in place. You could still use toggle clamps for the lumber you're carting around if you wanted, but i just cut some slots to run ratcheting tie-down straps through. Those straps also go through the existing roof rails for just that extra security - i'm paranoid about those things coming off, but it's very secure.
Be careful with the dissimilar metals you have on this project. The steel brackets connecting to the aluminum rails via stainless steel bolts is asking for galvanic corrosion, especially in wet and salt conditions on the road. You were smart to powder coat but the stuff usually wears off from the tightening of bolts and nuts, leaving bare metal exposed. Love the project, the truck, and the modularity of the rack :)
I did aluminium on steel brackets for a roof rack .. however I painted the steel, and put rubber in-between as a sort of anti vibration aid. I didn't think of galvanic corrosion (I'm ignorant), but I feel like it's not going to happen anyway fortunately. However there are stainless bolts through the aluminium...
Love 80/20! Very popular in DIY van builds too... Works super well.
Bob...you are the man! You need to post this on ih8mud. If you are a member there, you will quickly become my favorite person! Also, LOVE the 80, but time to step it up to a 100 series! Once you get that sweet ride with the IFS, and the extra power from V8, you will quickly love owning one! Then you can make drawers and stuff for that so I can copy off of you! Huge fan, and the fact you drive a Land Cruiser makes you so much cooler than the other makers out there...including Diresta and Picciuto! 😜
Thanks Aaron! I am actually a member over there, but probably won't post it (but feel free to). I get yelled at enough on TH-cam, so I'm not super interested in posting it in another place for people to tell me what all I'm doing wrong :)
Thanks for the kind words though, I seriously do appreciate it!!
Awesome job, looks great! One question though: how much load can you safely put on those rain gutters?
Massive respect for your work bob always fantastic to watch
Thanks for the mounting hardware solution. I'm going to be throwing some solar up on my imported German T1 camper and have been looking everywhere for a sensible way to create some mounting hardware that can tap into the existing rain gutter and avoid having to drill through the roof. This is a real life saver!
Next time you make the mounting brackets weld a nut to the back side. One less piece of hardware to lose and you don't need to hold a wrench while you use the ratchet/socket. (Protect the threads from powdercoat by partially screwing down an old bolt.)
Hello! I would like to see where you passed the wiring of the LED bar. Thank you very much and keep it up!
2 mln subscribers soon
❤❤❤❤
Slide-in side rail height extensions for camping gear and such! Awesome video. Thanks, Bob!
I see an awning in the future of that rack. Nice build, well-made vid. 👌🏼
I cool project would be to make a foldable camping tent, and put it on the roof rack.
roof tent definitly :)
I thought the same :D
Do it!
Yes it would be a cool project
@@baderalhazmi4340 Yep
Put eye hooks on the side so you can use ratchet straps instead of clamps
Yeah, I plan on putting some on the outsides and top edge for hooking straps to 👍🏼
I Like To Make Stuff hell you could you drawer handle s
^ This is good info and worth listening to.
The straps just need good anchor points. You can place them on the sides as well as front and back as needed. Two straps front to back and two or three side to side should hold a couple more sheets in place.
You could also do loops on the bottom to clamp down the load to the frame itself.
Great job Bob!
Awesome project. So cool how you integrate so many different production techniques!
Why don't you just fasten it to the roof rack that is already on the car. The roof rack is rated for holding weight and is approved for holding weight while making hard turns in high speed. The raingutter of the car is made for holding rain.
This would never been EU approved. Good thing you live in the US.. :) ;)
Hi some time has passed since posting the original comment. A lot of good replys to my worries about the strength of the rain gutter. And thank you guys for informing me on the subject. You all been very helpful. I see now that some may have seen the original comment as mean spirited, that was not my intention. Just voicing a concern.
Thanks.
Also. Great video as always Bob :)
TheDnmrtn actually a lot of aftermarket roof racks do attach to the rain gutter. And yes I’m talking about reputable brands like Thule and Yakima.
I was wondering the same thing
Ding Dong not only the rain gutter, they also clamp inside of the doorframe
A lot of good replies here. In the EU we have limitations on how much weight is allowed on the roof. All other forms of roof racks that is not from stock or exceeds that limit is illegal.
I thought that stock roof racks where connected inside the car to the frame. (My knowledge of this is somewhat limited)
The thing I mostly worry about is g-forces in high speed turns. Witch would force the stress on 1 or 2 of the clamps.
TheDnmrtn, most people who are carrying sheet goods or other heavy stuff on their vehicles roof are really not into making high speed high G turns. Not sure if I would want to make turns like that in the Land Cruiser anyway.
You should make a double kayak rack as an add-on to the platform.
Those clamps are nice touch, for a perfect project! Nice job once again Bob👍
Love your video and the way you teach/explain/demonstrate what you are doing and how you make it all happen. Even an ole lady like myself can follow your instructions. You have talent Sir and I hope you continue helping out those of us less knowledgeable. Good Job, and God Bless. Thank you so much for sharing.
i would make an flamethrower attachment!
Bob, you should defenitely do this.
Somebody get Colin Furze on the line - I need this collab in my life!
Oh, I so want to send this to Adam Savage on twitter... Somebody please get Adam Savage the blanket invitation to add a ridiculous attachment to this.
Someone just watched a Furze video today.
how do you now
How much did this ending up costing? Need to make one for my FJ
80/20 makes some awesome attachments and accessories, we always stock a supply in our shop for odd jobs
YES 80/20! I'm surprised I haven't seen you use this sooner. It's crazy nice
Gatling gun enough said.
Dustin Hughes wow
Dustin Hughes: LMBO!!
Be sure to put some rubber wrappers around those feet to avoid scratching your car.
Maarten Sneep those rain gutter mounts look a bit flimsy for my taste. If you stood on the plywood and started shifting left and right you can see if they are ridged enough so they don’t fold. I’d put a flange on the edges. Look at the Thule gutter mounts.
Just my thoughts. Nice rack design.
Agreed, with the racks we used (on a Renault 4, way back…) the attachment points were from U-profiles, much more rigid.I also think that the feet had a bit of play to allow them to rotate to the profile of the gutter (front to back), and the clamps had little ramps (or rather the struts had those), to pull the clamps up in addition to in to hold even better.
In any case look in the owners manual of your car to see what the maximum mass is that you can put on the roof. It may be far less than you think.
Maarten Sneep yes agree. Some of the cars I’ve had had a 160 lb limit in the factory roof rack.
Great project Bob.
I can see a lot of uses for that system.
Thanks !
T Slot extrusions are ubiquitous in the industrial world. We have an entire room dedicated to just the slot accessories, from nuts to handles and hinges.
Looks great, good job Bob! The only thing I'd add would be some plastic caps so you don't get creepie crawlies living in your tubing.
roof top tent with a deck to stand on at events.
Re: "the wrong hammer"
It must be exhausting having to preface things you're doing because you know some smart alec in the comments will weigh in. They ruin everything! Love your stuff, wrong hammer or not! 😉🥪
One day AI will be able to detect smartarse comments and delete them immediately. Then vloggers won’t have to preface with apologies.
I know someone that collects hammers the last I heard he had over 500 different types
Hey Bob, my dad and I love watching your channel. We especially love all of your land cruiser videos. We’re also fixing up a land cruiser and enjoy look at other owners projects. Have you ever considered doing a video of trying to intergrade a wireless charger into the dash board?
Very cool Idea. I love the blank canvas of possibilities that the slots on the sides of the extrusions offer.
There is no wrong type of hammer! There are only too small hammers!
Blue Eye Woodworking stop! Hammertime!
To quote a certain podcast, "everything is a hammer."
Aaron Schmidt
Even my mobile😂
Dino Lino been there done that 😜
My pool noodle hammer doesn't seem to work, i think it's broken.
Surely I would make some attachment loops to use a rope to tight up all the goods!😉
Love your 80 series Land Cruiser. It's a beast!
Cool idea with the 8020. I made 2 cross rails using unistrut and attach them to my factory rails (4th gen 4runner) with U bolts. I like the aluminum though, nice weight savings. I added eye bolts and use ratchet straps to hold everything down. I like how yours is made to be a pocket the sheets fit in, it helps with capturing the load to prevent sliding. The down side of my ratchet straps is I need to have enough height in the load to be captured by the straps (vs being shorter than the hooks and thus not having the straps tighten down well enough to prevent movement. The safer solution is to just get a utility trailer and then I can get what I want and not worry about a heavy load on the roof and subject to amplified angular momentum up there while driving around town. Also: I miss my pickup....
A Gatling gun probably.
Heyy I'm 13 years old and when I get older I wanna be like you bc you know how to build a lot of stuff and I want to be an architect so I can build a house and yea that would also be my mom's dream
kevin mtz same but Im 14
Same, but I'm 33.
I am 13 to
I'm 13 as well but keep dreaming big and I have the opposite dream I want to go into the tach field and things like that
13 group right
I would fit an awning, that would make a good shelter for camping or a good maker tent for out door events, top job Bob
Tip or trick I use is a bolt through washer on one side, then through a big magnet, then washer on other side of magnet. Then I separated the ground holding clamp and take the wire going to the clamp and use that between the washers on magnet. BEST grounding clamp EVER
You need to add a mounted water balloon cannon.
YES!
When I was a teen, I went to the junk yard and bought a second windshield washer pump system... added it in the trunk and attached the sprayer to the bumper (facing upwards). I'd spray anyone who started tailgating me. Which did result in some guy punching me in the face once... but it was worth it.
Plus a large water gun like E&K...basically just make a Batmobile
Why not attach it to the rails? The rain gutter doesn’t look like a good idea.
Also, why aren’t you heating the metal before bending it? Wouldn’t that lessen the stress and make the bend stronger?
My first of your vids. Really appreciate your interest in Sharing your triumphs (& tribulations). I have MUCH higher Appreciated for “Built, Not Bought” so, another salute. I tend to over engineer everything, with Worst Case Scenarios always whispering in my ear.
The materials were Very Expensive (80/20), but as you said, it was just to try something. After spending a few days online looking at HUNDREDS of homemade racks, I’m either doing UniStrut or Superstrut, or ATV ramp. Using extra pieces for reinforcement.
One of the more unfortunate aspects of living in southern Ca is rampant THEFT, so I have to designs theft deterrents in to EVERYTHING. In this case, All Fasteners. Extremely limited range of reasonable sized fasteners in Security Head.
Was going to make Fairing out of Lexan polycarbonate (never use Plexiglas), but ended up getting some miscut stainless at metal yard for free. Regarding the crucial Mounts. Tons and tons of (research) on Gutter Mounts. The clamping horizontally is good, and you can use 3/8 “ or M10 Security bolts; but vertically drawing the “clip” upward actually pinches better. The prevailing designs usually have captive threads welded on to “clip”, and it’s tightened by a nut.
That won’t work as ANY means of slowing down the scumbag thieves, so, I had to figure a way to modify, enabling the use of ... Security bolts to thread down in to “clip” face.
If you intend to keep yours, you might make a Fairing. And put heavy gauge 90* & Ts on Every joint with BOLTS.
If you are going camping having a motorized LED light mounted on your system and a remote unit inside to control it will be excellent. Sometimes at night it is handy to be able to move the light without actually getting out. Also gopro camera gear can be fitted more securely. Everyone that ever drove in real outdoor situations know that sometimes cameras just get lose. With this that will not easily happen. Having a Go pro on the motorized LED can be a great addition as it will record everything the lights sees Especially handy while filming at night while inside the motor vehicle
What's the reasoning behind clamping to the rain gutter instead of the roof rails?
Thomas Sanladerer I think primarily because of the limited weight of the factory cargo racks. Plus also not needing overly complicated brackets to then get out to the full 4ft width of the sheet goods.
Yes. the built on racks max at 100 lbs but also the footprint of the rack would be considerably smaller and the main goal of this is to carry a full sheet of plywood.
Nice idea Bob but gutter mount racks decrease max weight a huge deal, and even less if you are offroad, my set of gutter mounts are only good for 30kg max offroad where roof tracks would bump it up to 75kg, have a quick search of roof rack manufacturers and you should see there, full length cages like yours are also 4 to 5 mounts a side on a wagon like that too, I wouldn't be surprised if the rated weight you have would be tiny
Rain gutter mounting is stronger, however, you have the right idea wither the mounts, but they need to be "beefed up" with maybe ribs down the sides and a bit heavier material.
Only concern I have for you is if you're on the highway would those pieces of ply catch some wind and threaten to break free. Personally, I'd get some flat stock maybe 3 or 4 inches wide, and as long as the rack is wide, and bolt it to the underside, to prevent the wind hitting your windshield from blowing the ply like playing cards from underneath, and then maybe fashion another piece of flat stock on a piano hinge to top side to act as a spoiler on the top of the ply, maybe add a single adjustable nylon strap and buckle from the front of the rack around to the back for that extra insurance of piece of mind. Only reason I say this is because I've been on the highway with mdf on a steel work rack and you can feel it act like a parachute and always felt a little unnerving.
That said, get video again
The very first thing catch my eye when this video started was you amazing tshirt. I need to get one.
Awesome! I have a little hatchback that's too small for any roof mounts so I've been thinking about doing a custom roof rack. The modular aluminum extrusions are a great idea, especially since you can order specific lengths!
You could have saved a lot of time and effort just strapping a bed frame to your factory luggage rack.
I'm not sure if you have ever mentioned, but what headphones are those? I assume they double as hearing protection while you work?
EDIT:
Nevermind. If I'd taken the second to check your equipment link I'd have found them. :P
This is EXACTLY what I want for my VW Camper van.
Nice bulky appearance but light weight.
I grew up in apartments so constructions like this is such a foreign concept to me. But man, this channel is so awesome! I’m learning a lot ;) thank you so much!
Great vid! Love the ideas this has sparked for me 🤓
Idea on bolts for the channel: toilet flange bolts would stay while the nut on the other end is tightened 👩🏼🔧
Cool build! Thanks for showing it actually in use. I would personally want to have a ratchet strap that went around the back of the timber as a 'just-in-case'
Mobile Ham Radio antenna mast, is one thing. Now that the base is constructed, add plywood and this becomes a base for a tent. I really Love the ability to carry sheet goods. Every one has seen or struggled with transporting sheet goods on the family car... lol.. I also see a platform for a telescope or camera tripod, as some shoreline shots are impossible with a fence around the perimeter. I always climbed on top of my car roof with my tripod to take pics over a fence. Anyhow, great video.
Nice job on the rack! I'm sure you'll never see this comment, but a tip for bending metal in the vise. Use a combination Mapp/propane torch to heat the part up where you're going to bend it before taking the hammer to it. That torch will be plenty hot enough for 1/8" and slightly thicker.
I think that thing flexes more than I would feel comfortable with. Plywood in fact adds to its strength (because it structurally acts like a membrane) and is misleading. Any odd shaped heavy object (like a kayak) might create a problem. Anyway, it looks very cool as always, good job!
Nice solution. I made some mounts for Solar Panels and Antenna mounts with 1.5" AL tubing before, but it was very vehicle specific. I just got a new F250 with a Leer topper. Heh... here we go again. It took me a few days to see if "anyone has gone there" with the extruded AL, and I found your video. Thanks for confirming!
I was thinking electrical unistrut material are thin walled emt conduit tubing but yours is SO MUCH NEATER, CLEANER AND JUST AWESOMELY VERSATILE!!
Bob, I’d love to see your design and process for making a roof mounted, solar shower. You’re rack is an awesome canvas to add all sorts of custom goodies too.
Clever rack. Those toggle clamps are genius.
Your channel and projects show that you can make the world your own, one step at a time, project by project. That is an amazing thing to realise! :D
This is perfect. I've been wanting to get a roof rack for my truck, but the pre-built ones are hilariously expensive! I think this may be the perfect way to solve this problem!
How 1980s for the rain gutters mount. I had a Volkswagen Passat station wagon in Europe during the 80s. Served me well for years camping and skiing in Austria, France, Switzerland, and Germany. Mounts never loosened and were rockstars at holding loads.
Aside of the regular Mini-gun mount, anti-zombie cannon, or goose control grenade launcher, I think you could have some fishing pole hangers on the outside of the rack, above the rain gutters. My dad used a length of 4"pvc with a threaded female and plug on one end, but I feel like something akin to a broom hanger or strap based fire extinguisher hanger would be cool, if a little exposed. Great idea and execution as always!
You requested ideas for things to add to the roof rack... How about solar PV panels? I tow a Casita travel trailer with 1) does not have much space for PV panels, and 2) I usually would prefer to park it in the shade. By mounting the PVs on top of the tow vehicle, I can position the tow vehicle in the sun, and I can make the panels tiltable. While I am driving and towing, I can hook them up so I am charging minimizing the electrical load I put on the tow vehicle.
Awesome idea! I'd love to see a version that is flush mount to the roof so it helps cut down down on wind resistance and wind noise.
And Bobtimus knocks a Grand Slam out of the park! Love the Tron Shirt, by the way!! You're giving me ideas for my upcoming Teardrop Camper build! Thanks as always guys, Great Job!!! Especially liked the Toggle Clamps, very clever!! Oh, and when the light bar appeared, I was about to go 'hey....' when you mentioned it! LOL
Just found your channel (watched the metal brake one initially), then saw this one. I have two Land Cruisers over here in Scotland, so this was great. Chalk up another subscriber! Please keep them coming - we're all glued to our screens on this side of the camera. :-)
This is a great idea! I have an old '50-'51 Studebaker that I'm turning into a street rod... but I can't make myself be impractical for some reason... but I digress... using 80/20 extrusions is ingenious! This could allow me to grab that "emergency" sheet of plywood without using a trailer. Thanks for the inspiration!
Something I would love to see you build is one of those roof mounted tents. I've looked into buying one and they are incredibly expensive. It would be neat to see what a budget diy roof mounted sleeping system would look like.
This should be strong enough to support the weight of 2 people. Toss up a mattress!
Awesome project Bob! I've built a lot of projects using 80/20, but I never thought of something like this! Just a bit of advice though... I recommend using some thread lock or lock washers because the 80/20 fasteners tend to come loose, and with vibrations of driving down the road you might run into some issues of things coming loose. Keep up the great videos!
I specifically watch aluminum extrusion build videos as a Mechanical Designer to get ideas. It makes me think of the entire process. Designing is only part of the battle. Sometimes the assembly portion is forgotten about which makes the assembler’s job difficult or impossible
I too recommend some kind of thread locker
80/20 is great for a lot of stuff. For the most part, you’re limited by your imagination
Great work
You should make a mobile party center! Strobe lights and speakers, Maybe a drink dispenser or two
As soon as I saw you were using aluminum extrusions, I couldn't stop thinking about how much Evan & Katelyn would LOVE this. :)
i designed and built the A350xwb platforms with bosch using this stuff, it's really cool to see it trickle down into the consumer market, i just buillt a rear cargo box/sleeping platform from the 80/20 stuff just last week, it still has a bit to go before the price of materials is low enough to become truly mainstream but we're getting there....it's just so easy to work with and has so many uses, i hope we get there sooner than later!
Hi Bob at You Like To Make Stuff. I met you at Maker Central earlier this year (bald guy with a goatee sitting in a wheelchair. I was involved in vehicle engineering in my working life before retiring with health problems. May I urge you, please, make some rubber feet/pads to fit where the mountings meet the vehicle roof gutter, maybe cutting tire inner tube to fit. Both your rack and the vehicle body will flex, over time this will cause the paint in those areas to break down and allow corrosion to start eating away the metal. The rubber will isolate the metal components from the roof gutters.