Rhino-Rack Roof Rack for a 2017 Chevrolet Express Van to Mount Solar Panels

Question:

Hello, Im looking at the Rhino Rack Vortex for a 2017 Chevy Express. Do you know if the lower profile RRRL110S5-2 clamps would work on this Vehicle, along with the shorter 59 inch bars? The roof itself is about 59 inches, so I would like to not stick out past the roof if possible. Id also like to have the rack as low as possible to the roof. Do you have any recommendations to mount solar panels to the vortex rack? Thank you!

asked by: David L

Expert Reply:

I would not recommend going with the Rhino-Rack Roof Rack Legs # RRRL110S5-2 over the # RRRL150GMC-2. While both are gutter mount options, the # RRRL150GMC-2 have been confirmed to fit and provide the proper roof clearance for adding crossbars to your 2017 Chevrolet Express Van.

As for the crossbars themselves, they are an "overhang" style. So if the roof of your van is only 59", then you can use the Rhino-Rack Vortex Aero Crossbars # RRVA150B-2 (59" black) or # RRVA150S-2 (59" silver). You will also need the RLTP Leg Adapters # RRVA-FK1-2 for installation.

If your purpose for the roof rack is for solar panels, using the Rhino-Rack Pioneer Platform Rack # RR93QX would provide for a better application for mounting the solar panels. It will provide a flat surface with more support.

Otherwise, we have had this come up before and have reached out to some of our solar panels manufacturers. They have said it is pretty common and that people often use "z-brackets" to install the panel's on their roof rack. You should be able to easily source some z-brackets from your local hardware store.