Roof Racks on the Cab and Shell of a 2017 Ram 3500 for use with a Rooftop Tent and Other Cargo

Question

Question:

Hello, I have a 2017 Ram 3500 crew cab long bed with a camper top. Im looking to put a roof rack on both the cab and the camper top. With intentions of putting a rooftop tent above the cab. Any recommendations? Also the weight capacity shows 165lbs on the roof rack systems. Will that still support a rooftop tent?

asked by: Brandon W

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Expert Reply:

If you're looking to put a roof rack on the cab of your 2017 Ram 3500 and another on the camper shell, we have what you are looking for.

For the cab's roof rack, I recommend the Thule WingBar Evo Crossbars, part # TH711500. These aero crossbars have a 60" span and feature a T-track to maximize the amount of accessories you can mount to them. Pair them with the Evo Clamp Feet, part # TH710501, and the Fit Kit for your Ram, part # TH145106, to attach them to your cab. Keep in mind these crossbars will only work on the Mega Cab and Crew Cab of the 2017 Ram 3500. I've linked to a video review of these crossbars for you to look at.

For your camper shell, Thule has you covered there, too. The TracRac CapRac Ladder Rack, part # TH29200XT, will mount to your shell and even come with tie-downs to help secure your loads.

As for the tent, I've linked to a list of our tents for you to peruse. They each have a minimum crossbar spread for mounting to the roof, so depending on which cab your 3500 has, this may limit your choices.

To answer the question about weight capacity of roof racks working with tents: This is a special circumstance that can allow for an accessory to exceed the rack's capacity. The reason for this is because of the ladder supporting the tent along with the rack. Rooftop tents are built with this in mind, so this should not be a problem for you.

expert reply by: Kef G

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Answer 1

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Answer 2

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Answer 3

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Answer 4

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Answer 5

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Answer 6

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Answer 8

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Answer 9

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