How Does Swagman Roamer S80510 Roof Rack for Pop-Up Campers Install on Camper Top

Question:

Do I have to drill holes in my camper roof to install this rack? 2013 Jayco 12SC pop-up.

asked by: Daniel G

Expert Reply:

Yes, the Swagman Roamer # S80510 Roof Rack for Pop-Ups requires drilling since it is a permanent installation on the cap of your Jayco pop-up (as long as it does not have one of the 1-piece plastic trailer tops). The couple of holes you'll drill are easily sealed against entry of water by using a pure silicone sealant product like # 0160297 (white) or # LT37464 (gray). Full-service hardware stores usually carry a wide range of colors - and clear silicone too. This silicone is durable, flexible and it both blocks water and provides additional adhesion of the rack feet to the camper.

When you install the rack you'll want to spread the bars apart by at least 3-inches, but a wider stance is fine too. Having the bars spread apart means the total load on them will be better distributed across the Jayco's top.

These square bars as supplied are about 84-inches long to give you maximum carrying capacity for your camping gear but you're free to cut their length down if you wish. Installation hardware is included and once installed the bottom of the rack's bars will be about 3-inches above the camper top, as shown in the linked image.

These square bars are highly compatible with most rack-mount accessory carriers like the Kayak carrier # E98878.