Recommended Roof Rack and Cargo Basket for 2017 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk

Question:

I have a 2017 Cherokee Trailhawk and am interested in getting a roof basket. Currently i am leaning towards: Rhino-Rack Roof Mounted Steel Cargo Basket - 57inch Long x 42inch Wide - 165 lbs Rhino Rack Roof Basket RMCB02 I am trying to decide between these roof racks: Rhino-Rack Vortex StealthBar Roof Rack - Raised, Factory Side Rails - Aluminum - Black part number: JA7972 or Rhino-Rack Vortex Aero Crossbars - Aluminum - Black - 49inch Long - Qty 2 part number: RRVA126B-2 With everything being equal i think i would prefer the stealth roof rack but id like to understand better what the downfalls of it might be. Less capacity? Shouldnt keep it attached permenantly? Also what do you recommend as far as securing luggage and gear to this roof basket? My immediate need would be large suitcases and baby gear such as a stroller. Thanks.

asked by: Jeff M

Expert Reply:

Let's start with the roof rack for your 2017 Jeep Cherokee.

Both the Rhino-Rack Vortex StealthBar and Aero Crossbar Systems are excellent choices and are confirmed to fit your Jeep as long as its roof has the factory installed rails that run front to back. I do recommend going with the StealthBar Roof Rack # JA7972. This is going to provide an extremely sleek system with an OEM appearance due to the integrated feet that will attach directly to the factory side rails. Once installed, the crossbars will only sit 1-3/8 inches above the side rails.

The crossbars themselves actually have a slightly higher weight capacity of 176 pounds when compared to the 165 pound capacity on the Aero Crossbar system, although I also recommend verifying the capacity of your Jeep's roof as this will likely be the limiting factor. There is no issue at all with keeping this roof rack installed on your vehicle even when not in use.

Then for the roof cargo basket, the Rhino-Rack Roof Mounted Steel Cargo Basket # RMCB02 referenced in your question is a great option and is compatible with the StealthBar Roof Rack Crossbars. This basket has a 165 pound weight capacity and includes a fairing that will reduce drag and wind noise when it is mounted. I recommend using the Rhino-Rack Cam Buckle Cinch Straps # RRRTD55P to secure your cargo inside the basket.

The primary factor to consider when deciding what to load into a roof basket is just the awareness that anything loaded will be exposed to the elements. If you plan on loading any items into the basket that should not get wet or that you want protected from weather, I recommend looking into the Rightline Gear Sport 3 XL Rooftop Cargo Bag # RL100S30. This bag offers 18 cubic feet of carrying capacity and will mount right into the roof cargo basket. It is constructed of 600-Denier, woven polyester with a PVC inner layer that will keep your belongings clean and dry.